Deco

A complete profile of Deco (born 1977) — Portuguese football legend (Brazilian-born), his club and international career, playing style, achievements, and his post-playing roles.

Introduction

Deco, full name Anderson Luís de Souza (born 27 August 1977), is a retired professional footballer known for his elegance, vision, and command in midfield. Though born and raised in Brazil, he became a naturalized Portuguese citizen and represented the Portugal national team.

He is one of the rare players to have won the UEFA Champions League with two different clubs: FC Porto in 2004 and FC Barcelona in 2006.

After retiring, Deco moved into football management and sports direction, currently working as sporting director at Barcelona.

Early Life & Background

Deco was born on 27 August 1977 in São Bernardo do Campo, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.

He began his youth football in Brazil, with local clubs including Nacional (SP) and Corinthians.

His early senior career in Brazil was limited: he made a couple of appearances for Corinthians before moving to Europe.

Club Career

Portugal & Rise to Prominence

• In 1997, Deco moved to Portugal and signed for Benfica, but was immediately loaned out to Alverca (a satellite club) to gain playing time.

• He then played for Salgueiros before being signed by FC Porto in 1999.

• At Porto, under José Mourinho, he developed into a central figure in midfield. With Porto, he won multiple Portuguese leagues, domestic cups, and European titles.

• His greatest success at Porto included winning the UEFA Cup (2003) and then the UEFA Champions League (2004).

• In 2004 he transferred to FC Barcelona, where he continued to excel in Spain’s La Liga.

• At Barcelona, Deco won La Liga, domestic cups, and contributed to their 2006 Champions League triumph.

• Later in his career, he joined Chelsea in England, before eventually returning to Brazil to play for Fluminense.

• He announced his retirement in August 2013.

International Career

• Deco gained Portuguese citizenship in 2002 after several years in Portugal, making him eligible for the Portugal national team.

• He was first called up in 2003, and controversially scored a free kick against Brazil in his debut.

• Deco earned 75 caps for Portugal, scoring 5 goals.

• He played in UEFA Euro 2004, where Portugal reached the final. Deco was a key contributor in that tournament.

• He also featured in Euro 2008 and two FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010).

Playing Style & Characteristics

Deco was known for:

• Vision and intelligence: able to read the game, find space, and pick decisive passes.

• Technical skill: excellent control, dribbling, and composure in tight spaces.

• Playmaking ability: often orchestrated attacks from midfield and created scoring opportunities for teammates.

• Work rate: although more creative than defensive, he often contributed to transitional defensive phases.

• Big-match temperament: he produced strong performances in critical games (European finals, international matches).

Because of these qualities, he was often called a “midfield magician” in tributes.

Achievements & Honors

Some of Deco’s major honors include:

• UEFA Champions League: 2004 (Porto), 2006 (Barcelona)

• Domestic league titles in Portugal (with Porto) and Spain (with Barcelona)

• UEFA Cup / Europa League: with Porto

• Individual awards: Deco was named the UEFA Best Player in Europe for the Champions League season with Porto and received accolades for his performances in finals.

Later Roles & Legacy

After hanging up his boots, Deco moved into football administration:

• He currently serves as sporting director at FC Barcelona.

• He is also known to be involved in sports management and player representation.

Deco is remembered as one of Portugal’s greatest midfielders, a player who blended artistry and effectiveness. His dual Champions League wins place him among an elite group.