The Premier League’s top 5 Brazilian stars
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Watford announced the signing of Brazil U-20 star, Richarlison, amidst much excitement today. The Hornets have reportedly gazumped both Chelsea and Manchester United for the ex-Fluminese forward, parting with £11m.
The youngster follows in the footsteps of some brilliant, and not so brilliant, Brazilians who’ve plied their trade in the Premier League.
For every Robinho at Manchester City, there’s been a Roque jr at Leeds United.
Here, we give you the rundown of our favourite five from the Samba shores.
5: David Luiz
How can you not love Chelsea’s marauding centre-half? Cut from a different cloth, the wiry-haired defender was once described by Gary Neville as a “Playstation player”. He’s been reborn under Antonio Conte in his back three, though, and looks to have finally realised his potential.
4: Ramires
When we think of Ramires, our first thought is of the combative midfielder breaking through the Barcelona defence and nonchalantly chipping Victor Valdes from miles out at Camp Nou.
A box-to-box livewire, the former Cruzeiro player won it all at Stamford Bridge, including every domestic trophy as well as the Champions League.
- 3: Lucas Leiva
This is a sentimental pick if anything else. Having signed for Liverpool at just 20, the former Gremio midfielder spent a decade at Anfield.
The 30-year-old became a bit of a cult hero, with the Reds noticeably poorer in his absence when injured. The most unbrazilian of Brazilian footballers.
- 2: Juninho
Speaking of cult heroes, they don’t come much bigger – or smaller in his case – than Osvaldo Giroldo Júnior, or Juninho as he was known to Middlesbrough and Premier League fans.
The little magician had three different spells at the Riverside but would be remembered most fondly for his initial time on Teesside where he sprinkled wizardry on opposing teams on a weekly basis.
He couldn’t keep Boro up that year and his tears on the final day of the season as they were relegated is still one of the most iconic memonts in Premier League history.
1: Gilberto Silva
Some of his compatriots will have more honours to their name than Gilberto Silva but few will have made as big an impact on their sides than the central midfielder.
Having signed for the Gunners after catching the eye in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup win, the former Atletico Mineiro man quickly shone in North London.
He was a vital component of the famous ‘Invincibles’ side that would go unbeaten during the 2003-04 Premier League season.
He played six seasons for Arsene Wenger and will go down in Arsenal folklore as one of their most important midfielders.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
