Denilson, the World Cup-winning midfielder, has launched a remarkable comeback, 12 years after retiring from football. The 44-year-old winger has signed a contract with Ibis Sport Club in Brazil’s lower league as he looks to make a comeback after a successful career.
About the Brazilian Legend
He spent most of his 17-year career with S. Paulo and Real Betis, the latter of whom made him the world’s most expensive player in 1998. During his career, he also played for teams in five other countries.
Denilson earned 61 caps for Brazil between 1996 and 2003, including a World Cup victory in 2002. Before his World Cup victory, he became the most expensive player in the world when he moved from Sao Paulo to Real Betis for £21.5 million in 1998.
Denilson was an artistic and naturally talented left-footed player who was best known for his dribbling ability, particularly his use of several footwork to surpass opponents, such as the step over, which he used frequently, though he was infamous for his inability to score goals. Despite his talent, most people believed he had not lived up to the promise he had shown at the beginning.
Denilson’s Epic Return to Football
Originally, he retired in 2010 after bouts with Kavala of Greece and Hai Phong of Vietnam. But he’s about to put his boots back on and compete in the Campeonato Pernambucano, the highest level of state football in the Pernambuco region.
After confirming the move, Denilson tweeted: ‘I can talk now! IT’S OFFICIAL! The invitation appeared and reflected with my family… the father here decided to return to football after 12 years.’
‘From today I wear the shirt of @ibismania!’
The Brazilian is best known for his seven years with Real Betis, during which he made 196 appearances, as well as his 191 appearances for Sao Paulo. Denilson has also played for Bordeaux, FC Dallas, as well as in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Greece.
