Among the countless stars who have worn the tricolor shirt, the midfielders stand out for being the true “watchdogs” of the midfield, protecting the defense and initiating offensive plays with precise passes. In this article, we highlight the 15 best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history
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Read on to find out all about the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history!
Who are the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history?
São Paulo Futebol Clube, one of Brazil’s most traditional and successful clubs, has a rich history of achievement that is reflected in the quality of its players.
Over the decades, São Paulo has had exceptional midfielders who have combined technique, race and tactical intelligence.
These players have not only helped the club win important titles, but have also become fans’ idols and left a legacy that inspires new generations.
Each of them played a crucial role in the club’s achievements and deserves to be remembered for their dedication and love of soccer.
Read on to find out all about the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history!
1. Zé Sérgio
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1975, 1980, 1981)
- Fun facts: Known for his ability both defensively and offensively.
- Life story: Zé Sérgio had a brilliant career at São Paulo, being one of the mainstays of the midfield during his time at the club.
2. Dino Sani
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1957)
- Fun facts: He also played in Europe for AC Milan.
- Life Story: Dino Sani is remembered for his class and vision, being one of São Paulo’s great midfielders in the 50s.
3. Chicão
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1985)
- Fun facts: He was known for his strength and physical presence.
- Life Story: Chicão marked his time at São Paulo with his grit and determination, and was instrumental in the club’s achievements in the 80s.
Read on to find out all about the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history!
4. Pintado
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1991, 1992), Copa Libertadores (1992, 1993), Club World Cup (1992, 1993)
- Fun facts: Known for his fighting spirit and leadership on the pitch.
- Life Story: Pintado was one of São Paulo’s warriors in the early 1990s, taking part in some of the most important victories in the club’s history.
5. Cerezo
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1989), Campeonato Brasileiro (1986)
- Fun facts: A technical and intelligent player who has played for the Brazilian national team.
- Life Story: Toninho Cerezo had a remarkable spell at São Paulo, being a complete midfielder and fundamental in the conquests of the 80s.
6. Dinho
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1998, 2000), Copa Libertadores (1995), Club World Cup (1995)
- Fun facts: Known for his strong marking and leadership.
- Life Story: Dinho is remembered for his dedication and fighting spirit, being a key player in São Paulo’s achievements in the 90s.
Read on to find out all about the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history!
7. Mineiro
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (2005), Copa Libertadores (2005), Club World Cup (2005), Brazilian Championship (2006)
- Fun facts: Scored the winning goal against Liverpool in 2005.
- Life Story: Mineiro is one of the Tricolores’ heroes, with memorable performances and a lot of race on the pitch.
8. Hernanes
- Titles: Brazilian Championship (2007, 2008), South American Cup (2012)
- Fun facts: Known as the “Prophet” for his inspiring statements.
- Life Story: Hernanes is one of São Paulo’s greatest recent idols, with a refined technique and leadership.
9. Josué
- Titles: Brazilian Championship (2006, 2007), Copa Libertadores (2005), Club World Cup (2005)
- Fun facts: Captain on several occasions, he stood out for his vision of the game.
- Life Story: Josué was a key figure in São Paulo’s midfield, especially during their international triumphs.
Read on to find out all about the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history!
10. Gerson
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1980, 1981), Campeonato Brasileiro (1977)
- Fun facts: Known for his marking ability and precise passing.
- Life Story: Gerson was a highly respected midfielder during his time at São Paulo, contributing significantly to the club’s achievements.
11. Cléber Santana
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (2009)
- Fun facts: Honored after the Chapecoense tragedy.
- Life Story: Cléber Santana had an important spell at São Paulo, remembered for his technique and elegance in midfield.
12. Silas
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (1985, 1987, 1989)
- Fun facts: A major figure in the 80s generation.
- Life Story: Silas is remembered for his skill and intelligence on the pitch, being one of the greats of the tricolor midfield.
Read on to find out all about the best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history!
13. Ralf
- Titles: Copa Libertadores (2012), Club World Cup (2012)
- Fun facts: He stood out at Corinthians, but started out at São Paulo.
- Life Story: Ralf began his career at São Paulo and is remembered for his strength and dedication on the pitch.
14. Souza
- Titles: Campeonato Paulista (2005), Copa Libertadores (2005), Club World Cup (2005)
- Fun facts: He also played as a midfielder
- Life Story: Souza had a successful spell at São Paulo, being one of the heroes of the 2005 World Cup.
15. Casemiro
- Titles: Copa Sudamericana (2012)
- Fun facts: Currently one of the best midfielders in the world.
- Life Story: Revealed by São Paulo, Casemiro showed his quality from an early age, establishing himself as one of the great midfielders in recent world soccer history.
List of the 15 best defensive midfielders in São Paulo’s history
- Zé Sérgio
- Dino Sani
- Chicão
- Pintado
- Cerezo
- Dinho
- Mineiro
- Hernanes
- Josué
- Gerson
- Cléber Santana
- Silas
- Ralf
- Souza
- Casemiro
São Paulo’s midfielders have always played a crucial role in building victories and maintaining the team’s defensive solidity.
These players have not only defended with grit and determination, but have also contributed offensively, being key players in decisive moments.
São Paulo’s history is rich in achievements thanks, in part, to the dedication of these great players.
Celebrating and remembering these midfielders is essential to keeping the memory and tradition of São Paulo Futebol Clube alive.
We invite all fans and soccer lovers to keep following our website for more stories, curiosities and information about the idols who have made and continue to make part of this rich history.
- The 15 best defenders in São Paulo’s history
- The 15 best right-backs in São Paulo’s history
- The 15 best goalkeepers in São Paulo’s history
