From his humble beginnings in a Rio favela to his extraordinary longevity under the colors of PSG and now Juventude, a look back at the inspiring career of a player who continues to push the limits thanks to unfailing determination.
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Anderson Luiz de Carvalho, better known by the nickname Nenê, left his mark on the history of Brazilian and European football thanks to his extraordinary longevity at the highest levels. Beyond the statistics, his career demonstrates determination and a steely mentality that commands respect. A look back at the incredible career of this player whose story proves that you should never give up.
Early life
Born in 1981 in a favela in Rio de Janeiro, Nenê immersed himself from a very young age in the world of street football where poverty and violence reigned. But he does not let himself be discouraged and works tirelessly on his football, dreaming of success to lift his family out of poverty. Noticed by Fluminense, he signed his first professional contract in 2000 after a debut in the amateur world strewn with pitfalls.
His rebirth in Paris
It is under the colors of Paris SG that Nenê will finally emerge in the eyes of the general public between 2011 and 2016. Endowed with a lustrous technique and an unparalleled vision of the game, he quickly becomes the darling of the Parc des Princes thanks to to his sumptuous goals. Despite difficult periods due to repeated injuries, he managed to fight to become an indisputable starter again. His performances were rewarded with the title of French champion three times.
A winning return to Brazil and an inexhaustible thirst for challenges
Returning to Brazil in 2017 to come to the aid of Vasco da Gama in difficulty, Nenê proves that he is still as decisive despite his already 36 years of age. But his stat line does not prevent him from making a surprise comeback in Major League Soccer in 2019, wowing America in the colors of the Vancouver Whitecaps. In 2020, he returned to São Paulo where he continues to be dominant at almost 40 years old.
At 42, Nenê still doesn’t seem to have enough of football. While he was announced close to retirement after his departure from Vasco da Gama, the Brazilian decided to join Juventude, a second division club, until the end of the season.
A new adventure which will be the fifteenth in his long career, which began more than 20 years ago. Despite her advanced age, Nenê will continue to defy the laws of time and endurance, proof of her unfailing determination. Whoever remains a model of work ethic will definitely give the best of himself to help Juventude achieve their goals.
