The World-Class Players Who Chose Brazil Over the MLS

Brazilian soccer has always been known for its rich tradition and its ability to attract talented players from around the world. However, in recent years, we’ve witnessed an interesting phenomenon: some world-class soccer stars have opted to play in Brazil instead of following the traditional path to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. In this article, we’ll highlight some of these global stars who are shining on Brazilian pitches.

Marcelo – Fluminense

Left-back Marcelo, who shone for years at Real Madrid, chose to return to Brazil and join Fluminense. His experience and class have added quality to the Brazilian Championship, raising the level of competition and inspiring local young talents.

PORTO ALEGRE, BRAZIL – AUGUST 13: Marcelo of Fluminense gestures during a match between Gremio and Fluminense as part of Brasileirao 2023 at Arena do Gremio on August 13, 2023 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. (Photo by Pedro Tesch/Getty Images) /

Luis Suárez – Grêmio

Luis Suárez, one of the world’s best forwards, surprised by choosing Grêmio as his destination after his stint at Atlético Madrid. His presence in the Brazilian Championship increased the league’s visibility and provided Brazilian fans with the opportunity to see one of the most prolific goal-scorers in history in action.

PORTO ALEGRE, BRAZIL – SEPTEMBER 3: Luis Suárez of Gremio reacts during Brasileirao Serie A match between Gremio and Cuiba at Arena do Gremio on September 3, 2023 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. (Photo by Richard Ducker/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) /

Lucas Moura – São Paulo

Lucas Moura, formerly of Tottenham, found a platform to continue his high-level career at São Paulo. His skill and versatility have been crucial to the club’s success while inspiring young talents to enhance their skills.

Sao Paulo’s forward Lucas Moura celebrates after scoring during the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals first leg football match between Ecuador’s Liga de Quito and Brazil’s Sao Paulo, at the Rodrigo Paz Delgado stadium in Quito, on August 24, 2023. (Photo by Rodrigo BUENDIA / AFP) (Photo by RODRIGO BUENDIA/AFP via Getty Images) /

James Rodríguez – São Paulo

James Rodríguez, known for his performances at Real Madrid and Everton, opted to join São Paulo. His arrival brought a touch of class to the team’s midfield and added a global dimension to Brazilian soccer.

QUITO, ECUADOR – AUGUST 24: James Rodríguez of Sao Paulo controls the ball during the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2023 Quarterfinal first leg match between LDU Quito and Sao Paulo at Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium on August 24, 2023 in Quito, Ecuador. (Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images) /

Diego Costa – Botafogo

Diego Costa, a fiercely competitive striker, chose Botafogo as his new home. His physical presence and goal-scoring ability have been crucial for the club while drawing attention to Brazilian soccer.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – AUGUST 23: Diego Costa of Botafogo controls the ball during Copa CONMEBOL Sudamericana match between Botafogo and Defensa y Justicia at Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos on August 23, 2023 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Satiro Sodré/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) /

David Luiz – Flamengo

David Luiz, after a successful career in Europe, returned to Brazil to join Flamengo. His leadership and experience have been instrumental for the team and helped Flamengo secure important titles.

Flamengo’s defender David Luiz gestures during the Copa Libertadores round of 16 first leg football match between Brazil’s Flamengo and Paraguay’s Olimpia at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on August 3, 2023. (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL / AFP) (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL/AFP via Getty Images) /

Fernandinho – Athletico Paranaense

Fernandinho, a former Manchester City player, chose Athletico Paranaense as his club in Brazil. His quality in midfield strengthened the team and added a level of class to Brazilian soccer.

CURITIBA, BRAZIL – APRIL 18: Fernandinho of Athletico Paranaense controls the ball during a group G match between Athletico Paranaense and Atletico Mineiro as part of Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2023 at Arena da Baixada on April 18, 2023 in Curitiba, Brazil. (Photo by Heuler Andrey/Getty Images) /

Arturo Vidal – Athletico Paranaense

Arturo Vidal, another player with extensive European experience, joined Athletico Paranaense, forming a high-level midfield duo with Fernandinho. His presence contributed to the league’s competitiveness.

LA PAZ, BOLIVIA – AUGUST 01: Nicolas Ferreyra of Bolivar and and Arturo Vidal of Paranaense talk during the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores round of 16 match first leg between Bolivar and Athletico Paranaense at Hernando Siles Stadium on August 01, 2023 in La Paz, Bolivia. (Photo by Gaston Brito Miserocchi/Getty Images) /

Dimitri Payet – Vasco da Gama

Dimitri Payet, known for his ball skills and creativity, brought his talent to Vasco da Gama. His contribution has been remarkable, and his decision to play in Brazil was a pleasant surprise for the fans.

French midfielder Dimitri Payet gestures during the Brasileirao Seria A football match against Bahia at the Itaipava Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador, Brazil on September 3, 2023. (Photo by ARISSON MARINHO / AFP) (Photo by ARISSON MARINHO/AFP via Getty Images) /

Rafael – Botafogo

Rafael, who was once a familiar figure at Manchester United, chose Botafogo as his club in Brazil. His experience in defense has been invaluable for the club, and he continues to excel in the league.

Botafogo’s defender Rafael controls the ball during the Copa Sudamericana group stage second leg football match between Brazil’s Botafogo and Chile’s Magallanes, at the Nilton Santos stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on June 29, 2023. (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL / AFP) (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL/AFP via Getty Images) /

Filipe Luís – Flamengo

Filipe Luís, a seasoned left-back who had a successful career in Europe, joined the ranks of Flamengo. His arrival further solidified Flamengo’s defensive line, and his leadership qualities have been invaluable for the team.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – JUNE 29: Filipe Luís of Flamengo (R) fights for heading the ball with Luis Cano of Aucas (L) during Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2023 match between Flamengo and Aucas at Maracana Stadium on June 29, 2023 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Daniel Castelo Branco/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) /

These players chose Brazil over the MLS, demonstrating that Brazilian soccer still has a lot to offer to world-class talents. However, this doesn’t mean they have rejected the MLS entirely. Their presence enriches any league, attracts global attention, and inspires local young talents to strive for excellence. Ultimately, the decision to play in Brazil remains a good choice for these players.

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