Deco (Footballer) Biography: Career, Net Worth, Wife, Children, Age, Height, Nationality, Clubs, Awards

Anderson Luís de Souza, widely known by his stage name Deco, is a Brazilian-born Portuguese former professional footballer celebrated for his exceptional vision, technical prowess, and leadership on the field.

Primarily operating as an attacking midfielder, Deco achieved the rare feat of winning the UEFA Champions League with two different clubs: FC Porto in 2004 and FC Barcelona in 2006.

Profile

• Full Name: Anderson Luís de Souza
• Stage Name: Deco
• Born: 27, August 1977
• Age: 47 years old
• Birthplace: São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil
• Nationality: Brazilian and Portuguese
• Occupation: Former Professional Footballer, and Sporting Director
• Height: 1.76 m
• Parents: Unknown
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Cila de Souza (Divorced), Jaciara Dias de Souza (m. 2005–2008), and Ana Paula Schiavetti (m. 2009)
• Children: 5
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $25 million

Early Life And Education

Anderson Luís de Souza was born on 27 August 1977 in São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil.

Details about his parents and siblings are not publicly known. He began his football journey in Brazil, joining the youth ranks of Nacional (SP) and later Corinthians.

While specific information about his formal education is unavailable, Deco’s early focus was on developing his football skills. He is of Brazilian ethnicity and his religious affiliation is not publicly documented.

Career

Anderson Luís de Souza, widely known as Deco, began his professional football career in Brazil with Corinthians, where he made a brief appearance before moving to Portugal in 1997.

Initially signed by Benfica, Deco was loaned to Alverca, playing a crucial role in their promotion to the top tier of Portuguese football. After a short period with Salgueiros, his career trajectory changed dramatically when he joined FC Porto in 1999, marking the start of his rise to international prominence.

At FC Porto, Deco quickly established himself as a key player, contributing significantly to the club’s domestic and European successes. His exceptional performances during the 2003–04 season culminated in winning the UEFA Champions League, and he was honored with the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year award for his outstanding impact.

In 2004, Deco transferred to FC Barcelona, where he continued to excel by securing multiple La Liga titles and another Champions League trophy in 2006. Later, he joined Chelsea FC in 2008, helping the team clinch the Premier League title in the 2009–10 season before concluding his playing career at Fluminense in Brazil in 2013.

After retiring from professional football, Deco transitioned into football administration and management, leveraging his vast experience on the field. In August 2023, he was appointed sporting director of FC Barcelona, where he plays a vital role in strategic planning and player development.

Deco’s deep understanding of the game and leadership continue to influence the club’s direction, contributing to its ongoing success in European football.

Social Media

• Anderson Luís de Souza does not have a social media account

Personal Life

Anderson Luís de Souza has led a multifaceted personal life alongside his football career.

His first marriage was to Cila de Souza, with whom he shares children, although the specifics of their marriage remain undisclosed. In 2005, he married Jaciara Dias de Souza, and the couple had two children before parting ways in 2008.

He later married Ana Paula Schiavetti in 2009, and they also have children together, bringing Deco’s total number of children to five.

Net Worth

Anderson Luís de Souza has an estimated net worth of $25 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful football career, including contracts with top European clubs such as FC Porto, FC Barcelona, and Chelsea FC.