Originally, in the most rudimentary soccer of the 19th century, there was no clear distinction of positions as we see today. Players were generally organized into basic formations and played multifunctional roles.
However, as the game developed tactically and teams began to adopt more sophisticated strategies, the need to specialize roles arose. The midfielder, as we know him today, began to emerge at the beginning of the 20th century, especially with the popularization of the tactical system known as “WM” (from the English, “Wizard of the Wing” and “Wanderer in the Middle”), which originated in England and spread around the world.
On the Brazilian scene, the position of best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time has gained prominence not only for their technical ability, but also for the leadership skills and vision of the game that the big names have shown over the years.
From the fields of várzea to the pitches of the world’s biggest stadiums, Brazilian midfielders have stood out for their versatility, tactical intelligence and ability to read the game.
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By remembering the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time, we delve into a rich history full of memorable moments that have shaped not only national soccer, but also the global panorama of the sport.
From Danilo Alvim to Casemiro, each of these icons has left their indelible mark on the sport, winning titles, winning admirers and eternalizing their names in the gallery of the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time. Their inspiring career transcends generations, serving as an example of dedication, passion and excellence in soccer.
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Over the decades, we have witnessed the emergence of true midfield maestros, capable of dictating the pace of the match and playing a crucial role in the construction of attacking moves and the protection of the defense. Their life stories, marked by overcoming, sacrifice and determination, echo in the hearts of fans and in the historical records of the sport, reaffirming their position as the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time.
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So let’s find out who the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time are.
The best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time: complete list
- Danilo Alvim
- Zito
- Dino Sani
- Dudu
- Piazza
- Andrade
- Clodoaldo
- Toninho Cerezo
- Dunga
- Falcão
- Mauro Silva
- Gilberto Silva
- Casemiro
- César Sampaio
The best Brazilian midfielders of all time: learn more about the stars
It’s time to talk more about the achievements, teams, cities and curiosities of the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time!
- Danilo Alvim
Titles: Paulista Championship (1948, 1950, 1953, 1954).
History: Danilo Alvim, born in São Paulo, began his career with São Paulo FC and stood out for his talent and leadership on the pitch.
Curiosity: He was the first Brazilian player to score in a World Cup, in 1938. Danilo began the walk of fame of the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time.
- Zito
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1958, 1962), Paulista Championship (1958, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1964, 1965).
History: Born in Roseira, São Paulo, Zito began his career at Santos FC, where he became a key player in midfield and one of the team’s leaders.
Curiosity: He was one of the pillars of Pelé’s legendary Santos team, winning numerous national and international titles.
- Dino Sani
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1958, 1962), Campeonato Paulista (1953, 1959, 1963, 1964, 1965).
History: Born in São Paulo, Dino Sani had a long and successful career, playing for various clubs in Brazil and abroad.
Curiosity: As well as being an excellent goalscorer, he was known for his vision and ability to launch precise attacks.
- Dudu
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1962), Paulista Championship (1960, 1965, 1966).
History: Born in Rio de Janeiro, Dudu began his career at Vitória and then shone at Palmeiras, where he became one of the greatest idols in the club’s history.
Curiosity: He was known for his grit and determination on the pitch, as well as his leadership skills on and off the pitch.
- Piazza
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1970), Mineiro Championship (1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971).
History: Born in Ribeirão das Neves, Minas Gerais, Piazza began his career with Cruzeiro and had a remarkable career with the Brazilian national team.
Curiosity: In addition to his technical prowess as a defensive midfielder, he also played as a defender at key moments in his career.
- Andrade
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1982), Carioca Championship (1974, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1986).
History: Born in Rio de Janeiro, Andrade is considered one of the greatest idols in the history of Flamengo, where he won countless titles and left his mark as a player and coach.
Curiosity: He was a key player in Flamengo’s midfield in the 1980s, playing an active role in their Libertadores and Interclub World Cup triumphs in 1981, and was known for his refined technique and ability to distribute precise passes.
- Clodoaldo
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1970), Paulista Championship (1967, 1968, 1969, 1973).
History: Born in Itabaiana, Sergipe, Clodoaldo had a brilliant career with Santos FC and the Brazilian national team, being one of the protagonists of the World Cup-winning team in 1970.
Curiosity: He was famous for the “carretilha” dribble during the 1970 World Cup semi-final against Uruguay.
- Toninho Cerezo
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1982), Mineiro Championship (1979, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986).
History: Born in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Toninho Cerezo had a successful career in Brazil and Europe, representing clubs such as Atlético Mineiro, Roma and São Paulo.
Curiosity: He was known for his technical ability, vision and ability to distribute precise passes in midfield.
- Dunga
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1994), Copa América (1989, 1997), Campeonato Gaúcho (1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988).
History: Born in Ijuí, Rio Grande do Sul, Dunga was one of the Brazilian national team’s most iconic players, captaining them to the four-times world title in 1994.
Curiosity: After ending his career as one of the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time, Dunga had a successful coaching career, leading the Brazilian national team on two occasions (2006-2010 and 2014-2016), being known for his tactical discipline and inspiring leadership.
- Falcão
Titles: Campeonato Gaúcho (1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984), Campeonato Brasileiro (1979).
History: Born in Abelardo Luz, Santa Catarina, Falcão is considered one of the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time, standing out mainly with Internacional and the Brazilian national team.
Curiosity: In addition to his technical ability and vision of the game, he was known for his elegance and class on the pitch, being nicknamed “The King of Rome” during his time with the Italian team. Falcao is considered one of the best Brazilian midfielders of all time!
- Mauro Silva
Titles: FIFA World Cup (1994), La Liga (1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996), Copa del Rey (1995, 1996).
History: Born in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Mauro Silva had a successful career at Deportivo La Coruña, where he became one of the greatest idols in the club’s history.
Curiosity: He was known for his defensive efficiency and ability to recover possession of the ball, and was fundamental to the success of both Deportivo and the Brazilian national team.
- Gilberto Silva
Titles: FIFA World Cup (2002), FIFA Confederations Cup (2005, 2009), Brazilian Championship (1999), Greek Championship (2001, 2002), English Championship (2003, 2004).
History: Born in Lagoa da Prata, Minas Gerais, Gilberto Silva had a successful career in Brazil and Europe, highlighted by his crucial role in the Brazilian national team during the five-time World Cup winners in 2002.
Curiosity: In addition to his defensive skills, he was also recognized for his calmness and tranquility in decisive moments, being a true leader on and off the pitch.
- Casemiro
Titles: UEFA Champions League (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022), La Liga (2016, 2017, 2020), Copa America (2019), English League Cup (2022-2023)
History: Born in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Casemiro is one of today’s best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time, standing out for his marking power and ability to distribute play.
Curiosity: He is known for his physical strength and his precision on long throws, and is a key player in the midfield of Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team. One of today’s leading names among the best Brazilian midfielders of all time.
- César Sampaio
Titles: World Cup, Copa America, Brazilian Championship, Copa Libertadores.
History: César Augusto Sampaio, known as César Sampaio, was born in Londrina, Paraná. His career began at Paraná Clube, where he stood out for his versatility and leadership on the pitch.
Curiosity: In addition to his ability as a midfielder, César Sampaio was also known for his versatility, playing in different positions in midfield and even in defense when necessary.
And you, dear reader, which of the best Brazilian defensive midfielders of all time is your favorite? Which story or curiosity surprised you the most? Your opinion is as valuable as a precise pass in the final minutes of an exciting match.
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