The Connection between Fluminense and Soccer in the United States

CINCINNATI, OHIO - APRIL 01: FC Cincinnati's Brenner plays during an MLS soccer match against Inter Miami at TQL Stadium on April 01, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - APRIL 01: FC Cincinnati's Brenner plays during an MLS soccer match against Inter Miami at TQL Stadium on April 01, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)

The interconnection between Fluminense and soccer in the United States has become increasingly evident in recent years, as players from the renowned Brazilian club find new opportunities in American teams. This link has reinforced the relations between the two nations and demonstrates the essential role that Fluminense plays in the expansion of Brazilian soccer in the USA.

Brenner, for instance, is a striking example of this connection. His transfer to FC Cincinnati not only projected him onto the American scene but also contributed to promoting the Fluminense brand. His goals for Cincinnati showcased not only his ability but also the Brazilian club’s capacity to develop talents ready to shine on international stages.

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Moreover, players like Thiago Santos and Igor Julião have excelled in American clubs, showcasing Fluminense’s strong influence in nurturing quality players. Their successful transition to US soccer not only reinforces Fluminense’s legacy but also solidifies the connection between the two countries.

On the other hand, Welton Melo and Branco, former Fluminense players, brought their extensive experience to the United States, contributing to the growth of the sport in their respective teams. Their trajectories highlight the lasting impact that Fluminense players can have on US soccer, creating a direct channel between the two nations.

These success stories, spanning across the Atlantic, emphasize not only Fluminense’s ability to develop talents but also the club’s influence in promoting Brazilian soccer in the American market. This unique link not only strengthens the ties between the two sports communities but also enriches the global soccer landscape, demonstrating the strength of international collaboration in sports.

KANSAS CITY, KS – SEPTEMBER 02: Thiago Santos #5 of FC Dallas holds off Cameron Duke #28 of Sporting Kansas City during a game between FC Dallas and Sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park on September 02, 2020 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/Getty Images).
KANSAS CITY, KS – SEPTEMBER 02: Thiago Santos #5 of FC Dallas holds off Cameron Duke #28 of Sporting Kansas City during a game between FC Dallas and Sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park on September 02, 2020 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/Getty Images).

See all the Fluminense players who have played in the United States:

  1. Welton Melo – New England Revolution, LA Galaxy, Miami Fusion, Pittsburgh, and Seattle Sounders
  2. Brenner – FC Cincinnati
  3. Thiago Andradre – New York City
  4. Igor Julião – Sporting Kansas City
  5. Stefano Pinho – Fort Lauderdale, Orlando City, Minnesota United, Miami FC, Bold FC, and Indy Eleven
  6. Calegari – LA Galaxy
  7. Thiago Santos – FC Dallas
  8. Paulinho McLaren – Miami Fusion
  9. André Luiz – San Jose Earthquakes
  10. Branco – MetroStars
  11. Luiz Fernando – Minnesota United
  12. Gabriel Pirani – DC United
  13. Rafael Navarro – Colorado Rapids
  14. Samuel Rosa – LA Galaxy
  15. João Luiz – MetroStars
  16. Fernando Bob – Minnesota United
  17. Raphael Augusto – DC United