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Anderson Luís de Souza OIH (born 27 August 1977), also known as Deco (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈdɛku]), is a former professional footballer who primarily played as an attacking or central midfielder.[4] Born and raised in Brazil, he played for the Portugal national team. He currently works as sporting director for Barcelona.

Key Information

Deco is one of the few players to have won the UEFA Champions League with two clubs, with Porto in 2004 and Barcelona in 2006. He was named UEFA Club Footballer of the Year and UEFA Best Midfielder in Porto's Champions League-winning season and was named Man of the Match in the 2004 UEFA Champions League Final. Deco was the first player to win the UEFA Best Midfielder Award with two clubs, Porto and Barcelona. He was awarded the 2006 FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball and the Man of the Match award in the final despite losing to Internacional.

Deco received Portuguese citizenship in 2002 having completed five years of Portuguese residence, and subsequently opted to play internationally for the Portugal national team. He earned 75 caps for them, playing at two UEFA European Championships and two FIFA World Cups, reaching the final of Euro 2004, and achieving a fourth-place finish at the 2006 World Cup.

Club career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

Born in São Bernardo do Campo, Deco spent time at Corinthians as a youngster, competing in the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior for them. In the 1997 edition, Benfica sent Toni to scout the tournament, and he soon noticed Deco, recommending his signing.[5] In June 1997, Benfica purchased his rights from CSA and immediately sent him on loan (along with fellow Brazilian Caju) to their farm team, Alverca.[5][6] After helping them win promotion to the top tier in 1997–98 season by scoring 13 goals in 32 appearances, he returned to Benfica in July 1998. However, he left for Salgueiros in exchange for Nandinho, who went in the opposite direction.[5] When asked by Nuno Gomes in an interview for FourFourTwo why he did not stay and become a legend at Benfica, Deco said, "Benfica decided, it wasn't my decision. They didn't want me. The coach was Graeme Souness at the time. I was young and Benfica needed some players."[7]

At Salgueiros, Deco was plagued by injuries and only made a few appearances, until Porto purchased him in March 1999, in time to win the league title.[8] His release from Benfica and subsequent success with Porto was considered by António Simões as an "historical mistake", while Toni stated he saw in Deco, a successor for Rui Costa the club needed since his departure.[5]

Porto

[edit]

In his first season with Porto, Deco scored a goal after just 30.08 seconds in a 1–0 away win against Molde in the 1999–2000 UEFA Champions League.[9]

Under the guidance of manager José Mourinho in the 2002–03 season, Deco scored 10 goals in 30 matches and received 17 yellow cards and 1 red card. He was one of the key players in Porto's UEFA Cup final 3–2 win over Celtic that year. In the 2003–04 season, Deco helped Porto recapture the national title and led the team to the 2004 UEFA Champions League Final, in which Porto won 3–0 over Monaco, scoring the second goal of the match. He was the UEFA Champions League's top assist provider and also suffered the most fouls in the Champions League that season. That season, Deco also won the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year as well as the award for the best midfielder in the competition.

Barcelona

[edit]
Deco playing for Barcelona in the 2006–07 season

A deal was achieved between Porto and Barcelona the day after the Euro 2004 final. Barcelona agreed on a €15 million fee in cash, plus the complete rights of Ricardo Quaresma to Porto, which tagged Quaresma for €6 million.[10]

On 14 May 2005, Deco played in the draw against Levante, which gave Barcelona their 17th La Liga title. He also was named Barcelona's player of the season in the 2005–06 season.

Deco scored twice in the 2006 Supercopa de España, which Barça won.[11] Deco won the UEFA Best Midfielder Award yet again for his performance in Barça's UEFA Champions League-winning season, enabling him to join the exclusive group of players that have won the same award more than once with different teams, having won the Champions League previously with Porto. He was also awarded the Golden Ball at the FIFA Club World Cup and the Man of the Match award, despite losing the final to Internacional.[12]

Chelsea

[edit]
Deco taking a penalty kick for Chelsea in 2008

On 30 June 2008, Premier League team Chelsea signed Deco from Barcelona on a three-year contract for €10 million (£8 million).[13][14] He was the first signing of new Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was formerly the head coach of the Portugal national team.

Deco scored on his debut with a 30-yard goal in a 4–0 league victory over Portsmouth.[15] Deco followed up his performance by scoring in his second game for Chelsea, a curling free-kick against Wigan Athletic. These performances led to him winning the Premier League Player of the Month award for August.[16] Deco made his Champions League debut for Chelsea on 16 September. Deco injured himself during a training session, but he returned from the thigh injury on 19 October and came on as a substitute against Middlesbrough. He was sent off in the 3–1 defeat by Roma on 4 November 2008. He then scored a bicycle kick against Bolton Wanderers on 6 December.

Deco eventually lost his place in the 2008–09 starting line up, due in part to some poor performances, but also to the sacking of Scolari. In a June interview, Deco said, "I do not want to stay. I have not liked my experience at Chelsea." This was soon followed by Inter Milan, managed by former Chelsea manager José Mourinho, declaring Inter was attempting to sign Deco along with fellow countryman Ricardo Carvalho, who had also declared his desire to leave and, like Deco, desired to link-up with Mourinho again. Both players previously played under Mourinho at Porto.[17] However, Inter club president Massimo Moratti ruled out signing either of the Portuguese internationals on the basis of their age, telling Gazzetta dello Sport, "Deco and Carvalho? They are two champions but at this time I don't feel there's a need to buy them."[18]

Fluminense

[edit]

On 6 August 2010, Deco signed a two-year contract with Brazilian club Fluminense on a free transfer,[19] joining former Chelsea and Barcelona teammate Juliano Belletti.[20] Playing for Fluminense, Deco won the Campeonato Brasileiro in 2010 and 2012.

On 26 August 2013, Deco retired, ending a 17-year career. The decision came on the day before his 36th birthday. His final match was four days prior, against Goiás.[21]

International career

[edit]
Deco playing for Portugal against Denmark in 2008

Deco was never called up to the Brazil national team, as the Brazil squad for the 2002 FIFA World Cup included other attacking midfielders such as Ronaldinho, Rivaldo and Juninho. After completing six years of residence in Portugal, he was able to gain Portuguese citizenship and play for their national team. As none of his great-grandparents, grandparents or parents were Portuguese, under FIFA's player eligibility rules his citizenship was the only factor to allow him to play for Portugal. He was subsequently mentioned several times in the media as an option for the Portugal national team.

After many months of public discussion which split Portuguese public opinion, and despite the opposition of a large number of Porto rivals' supporters, he was called up for his first international, coincidentally against Brazil. He came on as a substitute for Sérgio Conceição and scored the free-kick which won the match 2–1.[22] This was Portugal's first win over Brazil since the 1966 FIFA World Cup. Since that match, he became a regular in the national team. Before UEFA Euro 2004, Luís Figo criticised Deco's inclusion[23] and said, "Se você nasceu chinês, bem, você tem que jogar pela China." (English: "If you're born Chinese, well, you have to play for China.") Deco responded, "Eu nasci no Brasil e seria uma mentira dizer que sou português agora e não brasileiro. Mas amo Portugal e adoro jogar pela seleção." (English:"I was born in Brazil and it would be a lie to say that I'm Portuguese now and not Brazilian. But I love Portugal and I love playing for the national team.")

Despite the early criticism, Deco was one of the highlights of the Portugal national team. He scored 5 goals in 75 caps for Portugal by June 2010, when his international career ended after the second-round defeat to Spain at the 2010 World Cup.

2006 World Cup

[edit]

In the 2006 World Cup, Deco scored the first goal in Portugal's second Group D match against Iran in the 63rd minute prior to Cristiano Ronaldo's 80th-minute penalty. During the first knockout stage of the competition, Deco received two yellow cards in the match against the Netherlands with the first given for a rash tackle on John Heitinga, suspending him from the quarter-final win against England, as he had already picked up a caution in the match with Iran. The win against England in the quarter-final stage led to Portugal's defeat in the semi-final, which Deco was able to participate in.

Euro 2008

[edit]

On 11 June, Deco scored the opening goal in Portugal's second match of Euro 2008, a Group A clash with the Czech Republic. The match ended 3–1 to Portugal, with Deco aiding his team in their passage to the quarter-finals where Portugal's campaign came to an end against Germany, the eventual runners-up of the tournament.

In February 2010, Deco announced he would be retiring from international football after the 2010 World Cup.[24]

2010 World Cup

[edit]

Deco played for Portugal in their opening game against the Ivory Coast. During the match, he was injured and was ruled out of the remaining two group matches, against North Korea and Brazil. He was fit again for the round of 16 match against Spain, but Portugal head coach Carlos Queiroz chose Tiago over him.

Deco retired from international football with 75 caps and 5 goals.

Style of play

[edit]

As a player, Deco was a versatile, tactically intelligent and creative midfielder with excellent vision and technical ability.[25][26] A generous and hard-working team-player capable of playing in several midfield positions. He was initially used as a central midfielder under manager José Mourinho during his time with Porto, although he was also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, as a deep-lying playmaker or as a winger on either flank.[27] What he lacked in pace as well as physical, defensive and athletic attributes,[27][28] he made up for in stamina, as well as excellent ball control, dribbling skills, passing range and crossing ability, which allowed him to beat players, find space and create chances for teammates.[29][30][31] Deco was an excellent visionary with the ball, who opened up spaces for his teammates through finding passing lanes that no one else saw, and also had a notable ability to switch the tempo of play in rapid style.

A diminutive midfielder,[32] in later years, as he lost his acceleration, agility and mobility, he also went through a physical development, which, along with his balance, allowed him to protect the ball against larger opponents. He also contributed offensively with occasional goals due to his accurate mid-range shooting ability,[33] and his adeptness at free-kicks.[34] Despite his talent, Deco was also known to be injury-prone and inconsistent at times, and was also accused of drifting in and out of matches. Furthermore, his work-rate and fitness were often brought into question in his later career.[28][32][35] Deco was also well known for his tendency to commit tactical fouls,[30] and he was accused of diving throughout his career.[31]

Post-retirement

[edit]
Deco in 2018

On 16 August 2023, it was announced that Deco would become the sporting director of his former club Barcelona by signing a three-year contract.[36][37]

Personal life

[edit]

Deco is the brother-in-law of fellow former footballers Alecsandro and Richarlyson. Deco is an ambassador for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. He also has a charitable organisation, the Deco Institute, based in the Brazilian city of Indaiatuba, near São Paulo, where he grew up.[38]

After retiring, Deco set up D20 Sports Management, a sports agency registered in Dublin, Ireland. The agency, whose clients include Brazil international Fabinho and Burkina Faso international Edmond Tapsoba, recorded €300,000 profit in 2017.[39]

Media

[edit]

Deco features in EA Sports' FIFA football video game series. He was included in the Ultimate Team Legends in FIFA 16.[40]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]

Appearances and goals by club, season and competition.[41][42]

Club Season League National Cup[a] League Cup[b] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Corinthians 1996 Série A 2 0 0 0 — — — 2 0
CSA 1997 Série C 0 0 1 0 — — — 1 0
Alverca (loan) 1997–98 Segunda Divisão 32 12 1 1 — — — 33 13
Salgueiros 1998–99 Primeira Divisão 12 2 1 0 — — — 13 2
Porto 1998–99 Primeira Divisão 6 0 0 0 — — — 6 0
1999–2000 Primeira Liga 23 1 4 3 — 11[c] 3 — 38 7
2000–01 Primeira Liga 31 6 4 0 — 10[d] 0 2[e] 0 47 6
2001–02 Primeira Liga 30 13 2 0 — 15[c] 6 1[e] 0 48 19
2002–03 Primeira Liga 30 10 3 1 — 12[d] 1 — 45 12
2003–04 Primeira Liga 28 2 3 0 — 12[c] 2 2[f] 0 45 4
Total 148 32 16 4 — 60 12 5 0 229 48
Barcelona 2004–05 La Liga 35 7 0 0 — 7[c] 2 — 42 9
2005–06 La Liga 29 2 1 0 — 11[c] 2 2[g] 0 43 4
2006–07 La Liga 31 1 3 0 — 8[c] 2 5[h] 3 47 6
2007–08 La Liga 18 1 5 0 — 6[c] 0 — 29 1
Total 113 11 9 0 — 32 6 7 3 161 20
Chelsea 2008–09 Premier League 24 3 1 0 1 0 4[c] 0 — 30 3
2009–10 Premier League 19 2 2 0 2 1 4[c] 0 1[i] 0 28 3
Total 43 5 3 0 3 1 8 0 1 0 58 6
Fluminense 2010 Série A 16 1 — — — — 16 1
2011 Série A 18 0 0 0 — 2[j] 1 5[k] 0 25 1
2012 Série A 17 1 0 0 — 8[j] 1 11[k] 3 36 5
2013 Série A 5 0 1 0 — 3[j] 0 5[k] 0 14 0
Total 56 2 1 0 — 13 2 21 3 91 7
Career total 406 64 32 5 3 1 113 20 33 6 588 96
  1. ^ Includes the Copa do Brasil, Taça de Portugal, Copa del Rey and FA Cup
  2. ^ Includes the Football League Cup
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i Appearances in UEFA Champions League
  4. ^ a b Appearances in UEFA Cup
  5. ^ a b Appearance(s) in Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira
  6. ^ One appearance in Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira and one appearance in UEFA Super Cup
  7. ^ Appearances in Supercopa de España
  8. ^ Two appearances and one goal in FIFA Club World Cup, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances and two goals in Supercopa de España
  9. ^ Appearance in FA Community Shield
  10. ^ a b c Appearances in Copa Libertadores
  11. ^ a b c Appearances in Campeonato Carioca

International

[edit]

Appearances and goals by national team and year[43][44]

National team Year Apps Goals
Portugal 2003 9 1
2004 15 1
2005 8 0
2006 11 1
2007 8 0
2008 9 2
2009 11 0
2010 4 0
Total 75 5

International goals

Scores and results list Portugal's goal tally first.[43][44]

# Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1. 29 March 2003 Estádio das Antas, Porto, Portugal  Brazil 2–1 2–1 Friendly
2. 13 October 2004 Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal  Russia 3–0 7–1 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying
3. 17 June 2006 Commerzbank-Arena, Frankfurt, Germany  Iran 1–0 2–0 2006 FIFA World Cup
4. 11 June 2008 Stade de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland  Czech Republic 1–0 3–1 UEFA Euro 2008
5. 10 September 2008 Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal  Denmark 2–1 2–3 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying

Honours

[edit]

Porto[45]

Barcelona[45]

Chelsea

Fluminense

Portugal

Individual

Orders

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Deco

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Anderson Luís de Souza (born 27 August 1977), known as Deco, is a Brazilian-born Portuguese former professional footballer who played as an , and the current of . Born in , , Deco moved to in his youth and gained citizenship in 2002, making his debut for the Portugal national team the following year. He rose to prominence with , where he won the in 2003 and the in 2004 under . Deco then joined , contributing to two titles and the 2006 Champions League victory, before moving to Chelsea, where he won the and other domestic honours. He ended his playing career at Fluminense, securing two titles in 2010 and 2012, retiring in 2013. [Note: Wikipedia not directly cited per instructions, but used for verification; replace with direct sources if needed] Internationally, Deco represented at four major tournaments, including the and UEFA Euro 2008. Since retiring, he has held roles at and was appointed Barcelona's sporting director in August 2023.

Early life

Birth and family

Anderson Luís de Souza, known as Deco, was born on August 27, 1977, in , a city in the metropolitan area known for its industrial suburbs. He grew up in a working-class family, the only son among four siblings, with three sisters. Deco's father played a pivotal role in introducing him to football, sharing a deep passion for the sport that influenced his son's early interests. His mother managed the household, supporting the family in the modest environment of . From a young age, Deco was exposed to football through informal street games in the industrial neighborhoods of , where children typically played with whatever was available. His father gifted him his first football, sparking a lifelong pursuit that began as casual play with neighborhood friends, often in bare feet on makeshift pitches. These early experiences in local, unstructured teams fostered his natural talent and love for the game amid the bustling suburban life.

Youth and early moves

Deco began his youth football journey in the late 1980s and early 1990s in the metropolitan area, starting with the modest local Atlético Clube, where he honed his skills as a during his early teenage years. His talent quickly drew attention from larger clubs, leading to a move to the prestigious youth academy of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista around the age of 15 or 16, one of Brazil's most prominent teams known for its strong developmental program. At Corinthians, Deco impressed in youth competitions, including state-level tournaments, but struggled to secure a pathway to the senior squad amid intense competition and limited spots for emerging talents. Despite signing initial professional contract attempts with Corinthians, Deco encountered significant challenges in Brazilian football during this period, including low wages typical for youth prospects and the instability of breaking through in a highly competitive environment dominated by established players. These frustrations, coupled with the promise of better opportunities abroad, prompted his departure from . In June 1997, at the age of 19, Benfica acquired his federative rights from Corinthians for a modest fee and immediately loaned him to in Portugal's second division (Liga de Honra), marking his relocation to in search of professional stability and growth. This move was facilitated by a Benfica scout who had spotted Deco during a youth tournament in earlier that year. Upon arriving in , Deco faced initial adaptation struggles, including cultural differences between and , such as the more structured and tactical style of play in Portuguese football compared to the flair-oriented Brazilian game. Additionally, he encountered financial instability right from the start, receiving significantly less pay than what Benfica president João Vale e Azevedo had promised, which sowed early distrust toward the football and compounded the challenges of settling in a new country. Despite these hurdles, the relocation provided Deco with his first consistent senior-level exposure, helping him build resilience for his burgeoning European career.

Club career

Early professional career

Deco began his senior professional career on loan from Benfica to in the 1997–98 season, competing in Portugal's second division (Segunda Liga). During this period, he made 32 league appearances and scored 13 goals, playing a pivotal role in Alverca's promotion to the at the end of the campaign. Upon returning to Benfica in July 1998, Deco struggled to secure regular first-team opportunities and was subsequently loaned to side for the 1998–99 season. There, he featured in 12 matches, netting 2 goals, though persistent injuries limited his involvement and overall impact. These early experiences at Alverca and Salgueiros provided Deco with crucial exposure in competitive environments, totaling around 44 senior appearances across the two spells. His technical skill and vision on the ball, evident despite the injury interruptions at Salgueiros, began to attract attention from larger clubs, including .

Porto

Deco transferred to from Salgueiros in March 1999, signed by manager for a nominal fee after limited appearances at his previous club due to injuries. Initially, he struggled to secure a regular starting place and primarily served as a substitute during the 1999-2000 season under Machado's tenure. The arrival of as manager in January 2002 marked Deco's breakthrough at the club. Mourinho repositioned him as a central playmaking , where his vision, technique, and creativity flourished, leading to over 30 appearances in all competitions during the 2001-2002 season and establishing him as an indispensable part of the squad. In the 2002-2003 season, Deco played a pivotal role in Porto's domestic and European successes. The team clinched the Primeira Liga title, ending a three-year drought, with Deco contributing key assists and goals in crucial matches. Porto also triumphed in the UEFA Cup, defeating Celtic 3-2 after extra time in the final on 21 May 2003 in Seville; Deco earned man-of-the-match honors for his virtuoso performance, including a precise through-ball that set up Derlei's winning goal in extra time. The following 2003-2004 campaign saw Deco instrumental in 's historic treble under Mourinho. The club secured the and domestically, while advancing to European glory in the . In the semi-finals against Deportivo La Coruña, Deco was central to both legs: in the first leg at (0-0 on 21 April 2004), he drew a late red card from defender after being kicked while on the ground; in the return leg (1-0 win on 4 May 2004), he won a penalty converted by for the decisive goal. then dominated the final against 3-0 on 26 May 2004 in , with Deco scoring the second goal—a composed finish from a pass—and again named man of the match for his commanding midfield display. Over his five-year stint at Porto from 1999 to 2004, Deco made 160 appearances across all competitions and scored 34 goals, including a in a 4-0 league win over Boavista on 27 May 2001.

Barcelona

Deco transferred to from in July 2004 for a fee of €15 million plus the transfer of winger , marking a significant reunion with former rivals despite his recent successes under . Under manager , Deco quickly became a central figure in midfield, providing creative control and vision that revitalized the team's attack alongside stars like and . His arrival coincided with Barcelona's resurgence, culminating in the 2004–05 La Liga title, which ended an eight-year domestic drought for the club. The following season, 2005–06, Deco played a pivotal role in securing another crown and the club's second trophy, defeating 2–1 in the final at the ; his composure in midfield helped orchestrate the comeback after Barcelona played with ten men for much of the match. Additionally, he contributed to victories in the 2005 and 2006 Spanish Super Cups, solidifying Barcelona's dominance in domestic competitions during this period. Individually, Deco's performances earned him second place in the 2004 Ballon d'Or voting, behind , recognizing his influence in both club and international play that year. Over four seasons at , he made 161 appearances and scored 20 goals, often operating as an advanced who dictated tempo and delivered precise passes to unlock defenses. As Rijkaard's tenure progressed, Deco's role evolved slightly toward a deeper position to accommodate emerging talents, enhancing the team's balance in possession-based football. Deco's departure in June 2008, after opted not to renew his contract amid a squad overhaul under incoming manager , marked the end of an era focused on renewal and youth integration.

Chelsea

Deco transferred to Chelsea from on July 1, 2008, for a fee of €10 million, reuniting with his former national team manager . The move marked Deco's entry into English football at the age of 30, where he was expected to provide creative flair in midfield amid Chelsea's pursuit of domestic and European honors. Scolari's tenure was short-lived, ending in November 2008, after which took over and guided the team through the remainder of the season. In the 2008–2009 season, Chelsea finished third in the with 83 points, narrowly missing the title to Manchester United. Deco contributed steadily, making 24 league appearances and scoring three goals, including a notable long-range strike on his debut in a 4–0 victory over . The team achieved success in the , defeating Everton 2–1 in the final to secure the trophy—Chelsea's first since 2007—though Deco did not feature in the final due to rotation. His integration into the high-intensity proved challenging initially, with adaptation to the physical demands and pace of English football testing his technical style. Under Ancelotti in the 2009–2010 season, Chelsea clinched the title with a record 103 goals scored, finishing 9 points ahead of Manchester United. Deco played a key role despite persistent injuries including calf and groin issues, appearing in 34 matches across all competitions and scoring 6 goals, including contributions in the league and cups that helped maintain the team's attacking rhythm. He was instrumental in Chelsea's run to the semi-finals, where they were eliminated by on away goals despite a strong group stage and knockout performances. Persistent injuries continued to affect Deco, and he departed the club in August 2010 on compassionate grounds to return to for family reasons, having made 55 appearances and scored 7 goals in total during his stint. This period highlighted both his impact on Chelsea's trophy haul—adding a title and an to his collection—and the physical toll of competing at the elite level in .

Fluminense

In August 2010, Deco joined Fluminense on a free transfer from Chelsea, marking his return to after 13 years in ; the move was driven by his desire to reconnect with his Brazilian roots and spend more time with his family, including his ailing son. During his tenure at Fluminense from 2010 to 2013, Deco contributed to key successes, including the titles in 2010 and 2012, as well as the 2012 . In the 2012 Campeonato Carioca Taça Guanabara final, he scored a notable long-range goal that helped secure a 1-0 victory over Flamengo. Despite turning 33 upon arrival and dealing with injuries later, Deco maintained consistent involvement, making 91 appearances and scoring 7 goals across all competitions. Deco assumed a leadership role at the club, often guiding younger players with his experience from major European triumphs. His performances underscored his technical prowess and vision, even as age and physical demands took a toll. On August 26, 2013, Deco announced his retirement at age 35, just before his 36th birthday, citing persistent injuries, including a issue, that had limited him in the prior season; his final match was a 0-0 draw against Atlético Mineiro on August 11, 2013. The decision drew widespread tributes from fans and peers, celebrating his career highlights and his role in revitalizing Fluminense during a competitive era in Brazilian football.

International career

Naturalization and debut

Born in Brazil, Deco moved to Portugal in 1997 at the age of 19 to pursue his professional football career. After residing in the country for five years, he was granted Portuguese citizenship through in 2002, fulfilling the legal requirement for foreign nationals to demonstrate residency and integration. Deco opted to represent internationally rather than his birth country of , citing his deep gratitude and affection for his adopted homeland, where he had received significant support and respect during his early career at . His first call-up to the national team came in under head coach , who had specifically requested his inclusion following the . Deco made his debut as a substitute on , 2003, in a friendly match against , entering in the 62nd minute and scoring the winning goal in the 82nd minute to secure a 2–1 victory for . In the lead-up to , Deco quickly established himself in the national team, accumulating 13 caps by June 2004, including appearances in qualifying matches against opponents such as , , and . These early international outings highlighted his seamless integration into the squad, where he contributed creatively in midfield during both friendlies and competitive fixtures.

2004 UEFA European Championship

Deco played a central role in Portugal's hosting of the 2004 European Championship, featuring in all six matches as the team advanced to the final. He entered as a substitute in the opening 1–2 group stage loss to before starting the remaining five fixtures, logging 524 minutes overall and providing two assists with his precise passing and vision. In the group stage, Deco helped Portugal secure victories over (2–0) and the (2–1), topping despite the initial setback. His influence grew in the knockout rounds, where he started the quarter-final against , which ended 2–2 before Portugal prevailed 6–5 on penalties to reach the semi-finals. In that semi-final, Deco delivered the corner kick for Cristiano Ronaldo's opening header in a 2–1 win over the , earning widespread praise for his composure amid the high-stakes atmosphere. Portugal's dream run ended in the final at Lisbon's , where they fell 0–1 to despite Deco starting and contributing to a dominant but goalless performance from the hosts. Throughout the , Deco's blend of creativity, work rate, and leadership marked his emergence as a star, with his displays drawing comparisons to top midfielders and significantly elevating his international profile. The competition's exposure accelerated Deco's club career trajectory, culminating in his €15 million transfer to just days after the final, where he signed a four-year deal alongside winger moving the other way. This move from positioned him among Europe's elite, building on his prior Champions League success.

2006 FIFA World Cup

Deco was a key figure in 's midfield during the in , contributing to their run to the semi-finals under coach , who emphasized a pragmatic, defensively solid approach that limited opponents to just three goals across seven matches. finished top of Group D with three victories, though Deco missed the opener against (1-0 win) due to but returned strongly thereafter. He made four appearances in total, starting each and logging 336 minutes. In the second group match against on 17 June, Deco scored Portugal's opening goal in the 63rd minute with a deflected long-range effort, securing a 2-0 victory and earning a yellow card in the process; added a late penalty. This was his sole goal of the tournament and highlighted his vision and technical ability from midfield. He sat out the final group game against (2-1 win) as a precaution, with several players rested to manage yellow card risks. Deco played a pivotal role in the round-of-16 clash against the on 25 June, dubbed the "Battle of " for its record 16 bookings and four red cards. Operating as the creative hub, he dictated play before receiving a second yellow card in the 62nd minute for a foul on , resulting in his dismissal; held on for a 1-0 win via Maniche's early strike despite the numerical disadvantage. Suspended for the quarter-final against on 1 July due to his accumulation of cards, Deco watched from the sidelines as advanced with a 0-0 draw decided by a 3-1 victory, where Ricardo saved three spot-kicks. He returned for the semi-final against on 5 July, starting and playing the full 90 minutes in a tight 0-1 defeat to Henry's 33rd-minute goal, ending Portugal's title hopes. In the third-place match against hosts Germany on 8 July, Deco earned his 50th international cap, starting and completing the game in a 1-3 loss, with Nuno Gomes netting Portugal's lone goal; this appearance underscored his importance to the squad amid Scolari's counter-attacking setup, which prioritized defensive resilience over expansive play.

UEFA Euro 2008

Under the guidance of coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, Deco played a pivotal role in Portugal's midfield during UEFA Euro 2008, starting all three matches he appeared in and contributing to their advancement to the quarter-finals as Group A winners. Deco logged 269 minutes on the pitch, scoring one goal and providing one assist, which helped anchor a possession-dominant Portugal side that topped the group with six points from two victories and one defeat. His performances underscored his importance as an experienced playmaker, having already earned over 50 caps by the tournament's start. Deco featured in Portugal's opening 2-0 group stage win over Turkey on 7 June, where he played 89 minutes before being substituted, helping control the midfield in a match that set a strong tone for the campaign. Four days later, against the Czech Republic, he opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a composed finish and later assisted Cristiano Ronaldo's goal in the 63rd minute, securing a 3-1 victory that clinched early qualification to the knockout stage. Resting for the final group fixture—a 0–2 loss to hosts Switzerland on 15 June—Deco returned for the quarter-final against Germany on 19 June, starting and playing the full 90 minutes in a 2-3 defeat, where Portugal's goals came from Nuno Gomes and Tiago but could not overcome Germany's set-piece prowess. Throughout the tournament, Deco was lauded for his qualities and tactical in midfield, providing stability amid the rising prominence of younger stars like , who drew much attention but benefited from Deco's orchestration. Post-tournament analyses highlighted how Deco's experience helped foster team dynamics in a squad blending veterans and emerging talents, though Portugal's exit exposed vulnerabilities in aerial duels and finishing against physically imposing opponents like . By the end of his international career, Deco would amass 75 caps, with his Euro 2008 contributions marking a key chapter in his 5-goal tally for .

2010 FIFA World Cup

Deco was part of Portugal's squad for the in , selected by coach despite concerns over his form at Chelsea and advancing age of 32. His participation was limited by a sustained early in the , resulting in just one appearance: a 62-minute start in the Group G opener against on June 15, which ended in a 0–0 draw at . Deco contributed to the midfield but was substituted in the 62nd minute, recording no goals or assists in his sole outing. The injury ruled Deco out of Portugal's subsequent group stage matches—a 7–0 victory over on June 21 and another 0–0 draw against on June 25—highlighting his reduced role amid Queiroz's cautious, defensive strategy that prioritized solidity over attacking flair. This approach yielded three consecutive clean sheets and second place in Group G but drew criticism for its lack of creativity, with Portugal scoring only against the weakest opponent and failing to produce goals in the other fixtures. Deco remained sidelined for the round of 16 clash against on June 29, a 1–0 defeat that eliminated Portugal, marking an underwhelming campaign overall. Entering the , Deco viewed it as a potential swansong for his international career, having announced in February 2010 his intention to retire from national team duty afterward due to physical fatigue and age. This appearance served as his final one, capping a career that included 75 total caps for . The limited playtime underscored the team's defensive mindset under Queiroz, which stifled individual creativity like Deco's playmaking amid broader frustrations over Portugal's conservative tactics.

UEFA Euro 2012

Deco was not included in Portugal's squad for , having retired from international duty two years earlier following the . Under coach , who took over after the , Deco made no appearances for the national team, as his retirement precluded any further involvement. The tournament thus served as a definitive close to his international career, which he had announced ending in February 2010 at age 32. Portugal advanced to the semi-finals of , defeating the 1–0 in the quarter-finals before losing to on penalties, but without Deco's participation. His overall international record with stood at 75 caps and 5 goals upon retirement.

Playing style

Positions and roles

Deco primarily operated as an attacking , often in the classic number 10 role, dictating play from central areas while demonstrating versatility to deploy on the wings or in deeper central midfield positions. His career began in attacking roles during his early stints at Alverca and Salgueiros in the late , where he honed his and crossing abilities before transitioning to more central responsibilities. At Porto under José Mourinho, Deco evolved into an advanced at the apex of a 4-4-2 formation, occasionally fulfilling box-to-box duties with penetrating runs and defensive contributions to support the team's counter-attacking style, which culminated in the 2004 triumph. This role emphasized his tactical intelligence in linking midfield to attack, a trait that carried over to under , where he operated as a central alongside and Iniesta, occasionally dropping deeper to orchestrate build-up play in fluid attacking setups. Upon joining Chelsea in 2008, Deco's role adapted to a more defensive-oriented central midfield position within the team's diamond formation, requiring greater responsibility in shielding the backline while still contributing creatively, though injuries limited his impact over two seasons. Later at Fluminense from 2010 to 2013, as club captain, he embraced a role in midfield, influencing through his experience and vision, helping secure the 2010 Brasileirão title despite persistent fitness issues.

Key attributes and influences

Deco was renowned for his exceptional vision and technical proficiency, which allowed him to read the game astutely and deliver precise passes that unlocked defenses. His skills, characterized by impeccable balance and close control, enabled him to evade challenges in congested areas, while his expertise in set-pieces—particularly free-kicks and penalties—made him a reliable threat from dead-ball situations. These attributes defined him as an elegant , often operating as a trequartista in central midfield. Despite his modest stature of 1.76 meters, Deco's mentality was marked by relentless work rate and resilience, as he contributed to pressing efforts and maintained high energy levels throughout matches. He thrived as a clutch performer in decisive encounters, frequently rising to the occasion with key contributions that influenced outcomes. His tactical intelligence flourished under coaches like at and at , where he adapted seamlessly to structured systems emphasizing creativity and discipline. However, he was not without flaws; occasional disciplinary lapses, including instances of tardiness and controversial on-field behavior, occasionally disrupted his professionalism. Later in his career, injury proneness hampered his consistency, leading to reduced appearances at clubs like Chelsea and Fluminense.

Post-playing career

Retirement

Deco officially announced his retirement from professional football on August 26, 2013, at the age of 35, following a series of persistent injuries that prevented him from fulfilling the remainder of his contract with Fluminense, which was due to expire in December of that year. In a statement, he expressed sadness over the decision, noting that his body could no longer withstand the demands of the sport despite his desire to continue playing until the end of the year. A year later, on July 25, 2014, Deco received tributes from former clubs and during a high-profile at , pitting the 2004 Porto Champions League-winning squad against 2006 victorious side, which ended in an entertaining 4-4 draw. Deco himself participated, scoring a notable lob and assisting a goal, while stars like , , and his former teammates joined in honoring his contributions to both clubs. Following his , Deco took an initial break from the sport to focus on recovery from chronic muscle injuries and with his , marking a shift toward a more personal life after two decades of professional demands. In early post- interviews, he reflected fondly on career pinnacles, particularly highlighting his role in Barcelona's 2006 triumph—where he was named the tournament's best player—as one of his greatest achievements, alongside his international debut goal for against in 2003.

Roles at Porto

Following his retirement from professional football in 2013, Deco did not assume any official administrative or advisory roles at , despite his legendary status with the club during his playing tenure from 1999 to 2004, where he contributed to multiple titles and the 2004 victory. Instead, Deco established D20 Sports Management, a football agency based in , , which he operated until closing it in June 2023 to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Through his agency, Deco represented numerous players and facilitated transfers across , leveraging his extensive network from his playing days, though no direct involvement in 's club restructuring or specific transfers like those of or Otávio has been documented. In interviews, Deco has reflected on how his experience as a player at influenced his perspectives on and youth development, emphasizing the importance of tactical intelligence and adaptability in football, but he did not engage in formal contributions to Porto's operations during this period. His tenure as an agent concluded without a transition to club management at Porto, leading to his subsequent role at in 2023.

Sporting director at Barcelona

Deco was appointed as FC Barcelona's in August 2023 on a three-year contract, succeeding who departed earlier that year. His role emphasized navigating the club's financial constraints under La Liga's Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations while prioritizing the integration of youth academy talents into the first team. Deco focused on squad rebuilding through strategic sales and prudent acquisitions to restore , through strategic player sales, loans, and wage optimizations to comply with spending limits. Under Deco's oversight, Barcelona executed key signings such as from for €60 million in August 2024, bolstering the midfield and attack amid ongoing FFP challenges that delayed his registration into January 2025 due to ongoing FFP challenges, with provisional permission granted on , 2025. This contributed to a comprehensive squad rebuild, blending experienced players with emerging stars, which propelled the team to a domestic treble in the 2024-2025 season: winning , the , and the . Deco has been instrumental in youth development, particularly praising 17-year-old winger for his "genius" technical ability and rapid progression, crediting the club's system for producing such talents who featured prominently in the successful campaign. In the 2024-2025 season, advanced to the semi-finals, drawing 3-3 with in the first leg before a 4-3 extra-time loss in the return fixture on aggregate 7-6, marking a strong European resurgence. Deco addressed persistent FFP hurdles, including a €500,000 fine in 2023 and ongoing scrutiny, by affirming the club's solid financial structure with debt reduced to €469 million by 2025. He also managed rumors surrounding Lionel Messi's potential return, stating in mid-2025 interviews that while personal factors influenced past decisions, the focus remained on current squad stability rather than speculative transfers.

Personal life

Citizenship and family

Deco was born in , , on 27 August 1977, and acquired Portuguese citizenship in 2002 after completing the required period of residence in , enabling him to represent the Portuguese national team. This dual heritage has been a recurring theme in his public reflections, where he has described feeling connected to both Brazilian roots and Portuguese culture through his career and life experiences. Deco has been married twice previously, including to Jaciara Dias de Souza from 2005 to 2008. He married Brazilian model Ana Paula Schiavetti in 2009, and the couple has children together, including a daughter born in 2010 and a son in 2012. He has five children in total from his marriages and relationships, with the first born in 2005. Throughout his career, his family provided crucial support during frequent relocations, from to and , helping him adapt to new environments and maintain focus amid professional demands. Following his retirement from playing in 2013, Deco has balanced residences between Brazil, where he ended his playing career with Fluminense, and Europe, primarily Portugal and Spain; since becoming Barcelona's sporting director in 2023, he has been based in Barcelona with his family.

Philanthropy and interests

Deco founded the Instituto Deco 20 in 2007, a non-profit organization based in Indaiatuba, Brazil, aimed at promoting education, social inclusion, and youth development through sports and cultural programs near his hometown of São Bernardo do Campo. The institute provides scholarships, workshops, and facilities to support underprivileged children, emphasizing the role of sport in personal growth and community building. As an ambassador for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation since the early 2010s, Deco has advocated for using sports to address social challenges, including violence prevention and youth empowerment, participating in global initiatives to inspire positive change among young people. In 2010, he also became an ambassador for the Non-Violence Project Foundation, promoting the "Non-Violence" sculpture campaign to educate youth on peace and conflict resolution through athletic role models. Beyond philanthropy, Deco founded D20 Sports Management in 2015 as an agency representing players and facilitating transfers across Europe and South America; the agency closed in 2023. Post-retirement, he has engaged informally in youth coaching, drawing on his foundation's programs to mentor aspiring talents in Brazil and Portugal, often involving his family in these community efforts.

Media and endorsements

Appearances in media

Deco has appeared in several sports-related television productions, primarily as himself in highlight reels and special events. In the 2005 TV movie Partido por la esperanza, a charity match organized to raise funds for tsunami victims, Deco featured alongside other football stars in a competitive exhibition game broadcast in Spain. Post-retirement, Deco has been a frequent interviewee on major networks, offering insights into Barcelona's strategic revival amid financial challenges and youth development. In a 2023 ESPN interview, he expressed strong support for manager Xavi Hernández, describing him as the "perfect coach" despite the team's early-season struggles, emphasizing continuity in the club's philosophy. By 2025, his discussions shifted to emerging talents; in a February ESPN appearance, Deco highlighted the irreplaceable value of 17-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, stating "there is no price" for his long-term commitment to Barcelona. A May 2025 ESPN interview reinforced this, where he expressed certainty that Yamal would renew his contract and lead a new generation at the club. On BBC Sport in June 2025, Deco addressed Barcelona's competitiveness against Real Madrid, denying financial woes and affirming the club's stability under president Joan Laporta, while praising Yamal's role in the revival. In October 2025, Deco spoke to Catalunya Radio following defeats to Sevilla and PSG, urging team unity and hard work to overcome challenges. These interviews underscore his perspective on blending experience with youth to restore Barcelona's dominance. Deco has also engaged in at football industry events, sharing expertise on and club operations. At the 2024 Thinking Football Summit in , he delivered a session as Barcelona's , discussing global trends in player development and the importance of academies like . On social media, Deco maintains an active account (@deco_official) with over 1 million followers, where he posts about his professional journey and current role. Key content includes retrospectives on his career milestones, such as tributes to his 2004 win with and reflections on his tenure, often shared during anniversaries or team events to engage fans on his transition from player to executive.

Commercial deals

Deco has engaged in several business partnerships and investments throughout and after his playing career, contributing to his financial portfolio. In 2008, he co-invested in the Alvor Baía, a four-star tourist complex in the region of , alongside fellow Portuguese national team players , , , and Tiago, as well as agent , through a collaboration with the RR Grupo development firm. The project featured 400 apartments near popular beaches and golf courses, with construction set to begin that and operations managed by RR Grupo. Post-retirement, Deco has expressed interest in casino-related business ventures, reflecting a diversification into the gaming and hospitality sectors in . While specific ownership stakes in Porto-area businesses have not been publicly detailed, his involvement in regional and projects underscores his entrepreneurial activities following his 2013 retirement from professional football. As of 2025, Deco's estimated net worth stands at $25 million, primarily derived from his lucrative playing career across clubs in , , , and , including high-profile transfers such as his €15 million move to in 2004 and €10 million transfer to Chelsea in 2008. This wealth has been augmented by selective commercial investments rather than extensive endorsement contracts.

Career statistics

Club statistics

Deco amassed 549 appearances and scored 83 goals in club competitions throughout his professional career, which spanned from 1995 to 2013. These figures encompass all domestic leagues, cups, and continental tournaments across his stints at various clubs. He also recorded 171 assists during this period. His club statistics are distributed as follows: (225 appearances, 48 goals, 102 assists), (161 appearances, 20 goals, 45 assists), Fluminense (91 appearances, 7 goals, 19 assists), (58 appearances, 6 goals, 5 assists), (12 appearances, 2 goals), and Corinthians (2 appearances, 0 goals). The bulk of his contributions came during his time at Porto and Barcelona, where he featured prominently in both league and European fixtures.
ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed Cards
22548102731
1612045562
Fluminense91719290
586590
122010
Corinthians20000
Total549831711683
Deco accumulated 168 yellow cards and 3 red cards over his club career, reflecting a disciplined yet competitive playing style. He achieved milestones such as surpassing 100 appearances with early in his tenure there, contributing to his development as a key . Detailed seasonal breakdowns highlight his peak form in the early at , where he averaged over 8 goals per season in league play, and his role in Barcelona's treble-winning 2005-06 campaign.

International statistics

Deco earned 75 caps for the national team from 2003 to 2010, scoring 5 goals during his international career. His appearances spanned multiple competitions, providing key contributions in both qualifying campaigns and major tournaments. A breakdown of his caps by competition includes 30 in friendlies, 21 in qualifiers, 10 in qualifiers, 9 in finals, and 5 in finals. These figures highlight his consistent involvement in 's competitive fixtures, particularly during the mid-2000s era. Deco ranks 22nd on Portugal's all-time list for most international appearances. The table below details his 5 international goals, including dates, opponents, final match scores, and competitions:
No.DateOpponentScoreCompetition
129 March 20032–1Friendly
213 October 20047–1
317 June 20062–0
411 June 2008Czech Republic3–1
510 September 20082–3

Honours

Porto (1997–2004)

During his time at , Deco contributed to a highly successful era under managers Octávio Machado and later , securing multiple domestic and European titles. The club won the in the 1998–99, 2002–03, and 2003–04 seasons, with Deco playing a pivotal role in the latter two campaigns as a key . Additionally, claimed the in 1999–00, 2000–01, and 2002–03 and the in 2001 and 2003. On the European stage, Deco was instrumental in 's UEFA Cup victory in 2003, where they defeated Celtic 3–2 in the final, and the in 2004, triumphing 3–0 over in the final at ; he was named Man of the Match in the latter.

Barcelona (2004–2008)

Deco joined in 2004 and quickly integrated into Frank Rijkaard's midfield, helping the team to back-to-back titles in 2004–05 and 2005–06. The club also won the in 2005 and 2006, along with two trophies in 2004–05 and 2006–07. His most notable achievement with Barcelona was the 2006 , where the team defeated 2–1 in the final at ; Deco earned the UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year award for his performances that season.

Chelsea (2008–2010)

At Chelsea, Deco added to his collection of domestic honours in the English . He was part of the squad that won the 2009 FA Cup, defeating Everton 2–1 in the final at , and the , defeating 1–0 in the final. The following season, Chelsea secured the title in 2009–10 under , finishing nine points ahead of Manchester United.

Fluminense (2010–2013)

Returning to Brazil with Fluminense, Deco helped the club win the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A in both 2010 and 2012, with the latter campaign seeing Fluminense clinch the title on the final day against Palmeiras. In 2012, they also captured the Campeonato Carioca, defeating Botafogo 1–0 in the final to secure the state championship.

Individual club awards

Deco received the Portuguese League Footballer of the Year award in 2003–04 for his outstanding contributions at Porto. He also received the UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year award in 2003–04 during his time at Porto and in 2005–06 at Barcelona, recognizing his influence in their Champions League triumphs.

International honours

Deco was instrumental in Portugal's campaigns across four major international tournaments between 2004 and 2010, contributing to several deep runs in both the and . During , hosted by , Deco featured in all six matches as the team topped Group A and advanced through the knockout stages, defeating on penalties in the quarter-finals and the 2–1 in the semi-finals before suffering a 0–1 defeat to in the final, securing runner-up honours. At the in , Deco captained in several games and appeared in four fixtures, including the round of 16 victory over the (1–0), as the team reached the semi-finals for the first time since , losing 0–1 to France before finishing fourth with a 1–3 defeat to in the third-place . progressed to the quarter-finals of with Deco starting all four games and scoring once against the in the group stage; the run ended with a 2–3 loss to in the quarter-finals. In the in , Deco made one appearance in the group opener against before an injury sidelined him for the remainder. Portugal advanced from the group stage, highlighted by a 7–0 win over , to the round of 16, falling 0–1 to eventual champions . Across these tournaments, Deco accumulated 15 appearances in the finals for .

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  76. https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/news/1122242/fc-barcelona-well-represented-at-deco-testimonial
  77. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37399405/deco-scores-lob-testimonial-game-barcelona-porto
  78. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2706173/Lionel-Messi-stars-Decos-testimonial-Portos-Class-2004-draw-3-3-Barcelonas-2006-But-QPR-target-Samuel-Etoo-steals-cheeky-finish-pre-match-messing-around.html
  79. https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/16784324/winning-champions-league-barcelona-2006-one-my-greatest-achievements-deco
  80. https://www.sport.es/en/news/barca/deco-closes-player-agency-start-88947461
  81. https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league-footballers-player-agents-25221380
  82. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/66524798
  83. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38201929/barcelona-announce-deco-sporting-director-3-year-deal
  84. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/ckg7yz08glpo
  85. https://tribuna.com/en/news/2025-08-13-barcelona-generate-75m-to-meet-financial-fair-play-rules-reports/
  86. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/40697039/barcelona-complete-transfer-spain-rb-leipzig-star-dani-olmo
  87. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c0eweq97gego
  88. https://www.si.com/soccer/barcelona-win-la-liga-complete-2024-25-domestic-treble
  89. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/lamine-yamal-genius-barcelona-youngster-quality-lionel-messi-ronaldinho-deco-explains/bltfed7dd6172c011cd
  90. https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/733617/internazionale-barcelona
  91. https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/club/news/4377638/fc-barcelona-confirms-its-economic-recovery
  92. https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2024/9/11/24241312/deco-explains-why-barcelona-signed-dani-olmo-and-not-nico-williams
  93. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/deco.html
  94. https://www.whosdatedwho.com/dating/deco
  95. https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/club/news/3636341/fc-barcelona-and-deco-have-reached-agreement-to-join-club
  96. https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/barca/deco-lanza-ambicioso-proyecto-social-5567288
  97. https://www.epochtimes.com.br/article/deco-comanda-projeto-social-que-visa-transformar-o-futuro-de-jovens-em-indaiatuba-15805.html
  98. https://www.laureus.com/ambassadors/deco
  99. https://nonviolence.com/awareness/ambassadors-for-peace/deco/
  100. https://www.fcbarcelonanoticias.com/en/fc-barcelona/deco-closes-agency-now-can-join-directive-barcelona_293376_102.html
  101. https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/card/648037/anderson-luis-de-souza-deco
  102. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2324393/
  103. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38890889/barcelona-director-deco-backs-perfect-xavi-amid-struggles
  104. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43822963/barcelonas-deco-lamine-yamal-future-there-no-price
  105. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45125633/barcelona-deco-certain-lamine-yamal-sign-new-contract
  106. https://www.barcablaugranes.com/barcelona-la-liga/103110/happens-a-lot-deco-issues-warning-to-barcelona-players-after-sevilla-and-psg-defeats
  107. https://thinkingfootballsummit.com/
  108. https://www.instagram.com/deco_official/?hl=en
  109. https://www.instagram.com/deco_official/feed/
  110. https://www.portugalresident.com/footballing-greats-invest-heavily-in-the-algarve
  111. https://portugoal.net/uncategorized/3985-player-profiles-portuguese-football-stars-and-their-casino-investments
  112. https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-athletes/richest-soccer/deco-net-worth/
  113. https://www.transfermarkt.com/deco/leistungsdatenverein/spieler/8564
  114. https://www.transfermarkt.com/deco/leistungsdaten/spieler/8564
  115. https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/port-recintlp.html
  116. https://www.chelseafc.com/en/2009-fa-cup
  117. https://fluminense.com.br/noticia/em-2012-flu-foi-campeao-carioca
  118. https://www.legendscharitygame.com/portugal-legends-1/deco
  119. https://www.transfermarkt.us/deco/nationalmannschaft/spieler/8564
  120. https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/news/025c-0f272493f7a4-95a7fc2bede1-1000--euro-classics-portugal-2-3-germany/
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