Complete Name: Anderson Luis de Souza

Birthplace: Sao Bernardo do Campo (Brazil)
Birthday: September 27th 1977

Height: 177cm
Weight: 73kg

Nickname: DECO

Biography

Anderson Luis de Souza, known in the world of football as 'Deco', began his professional career in Brazil with National Sao Paulo (1995-96 and 1996-97). He spent a brief time with Corinthians (1997) before making his move to Europe.


He signed for Benfica in the 1997-98 season but only appeared for the reserve team, Alverca, in the second division. He played very well in his first season in Portugal and therefore came to the attention of Porto. He spent the 1998-99 season playing for another small club, SC Salgueiros but then moved definitively to Porto on the recommendation of coach Fernando Castro. He had five successful seasons with Porto from 1999 to 2004.


In 2004 he attracted the attention of some of Europe's biggest clubs and with José Mourinho at the helm he won the UEFA Champions League against As Monaco in May 2004. In addition He was chosen as best player in the final against AS Monaco and received the Player of the Year Award in Portugal. Deco arrived at Barça in the summer of 2004 and soon won the fans over with his skilful and intelligent football. Rijkaard made him to one of the pillars of the new Barça. Deco appeared figured in 35 of the league winning season's 38 games, contributing goals, determination and a winning mentality.


Deco took the Portuguese nationality and made his international debut with his adopted country on 29th March 2003, curiously enough against his country of birth, Brazil. He scored the only goal of the match and gave Portugal their first win over Brazil since 37 years. In summer 2004, he took part in the European Championship with Portugal, losing the final to Greece (1-0).


Deco moved from FC Porto to FC Barcelona for a transfer fee of € 21,000,000 in the summer of 2004. Deco has a contract with FC Barcelona until 30th June 2009

Profile & Position

Deco is a versatile midfielder who gives his teams a variety of tactical options. The Barça star possesses good individual skills and is an excellent passer of the ball. He excels in creative duties and can play behind the striker or on the right or in the centre of midfield.


In addition to his skills as a playmaker, he is a tireless destroyer of the opposition's attacking moves. As such he combines perfectly with team mates who have a holding role in midfield.


Deco loves to run at opposing defenders and constantly looks for opportunities to shoot. He is an expert at free kicks near the box.