Last update 12 June, 2025 by Alberto Llopis
Some overcoming stories seem taken from a movie. At from Alex Ribeiro (Rio de Janeiro, 1999) is one of them. To clean streets in your childhood to consolidate as a key piece in the Brazilian team of Carlo Ancelotti, Its journey is a sample of perseverance, humility and character.
Alex Ribeiro's surprising story, The Brazilian central of 25 years
As marks brand, Ribeiro grew in a difficult environment in Brazil, working as a child picking garbage to help your family. His life was far from the luxury that usually surrounds professional football, But his passion for the ball was unwavering. I played on the street with friends, dreaming of being a footballer someday, Although reality seemed to refuse it.
During his adolescence, Alex was rejected by several clubs. They considered it under stature, No outstanding technical conditions, And without an environment that will support him. But his determination led him to continue trying.
He went to Portugal where he fought to achieve his dream in teams like Praiense, El Amora and El Chaves. Finally, was the Lille 0.S.C who opted for him in 2022, And there began its evolution as a central: Strong in air game, disciplined in the brand and with great capacity in advance.
ALEXSANDRO RIBEIRO X CARLO ANCELOTTI @_alec04 ❤️
@Cbf_futebol pic.twitter.com/pYRMVyRzDT
- Losc (@losclive) June 3, 2025
To the 25 years, Ribeiro with his performance, He caught Carletto's attention to be his strong man in the Brazilian defense in the first Italian games at the head of the ‘Canarinha’.
An unexpected pillar for Brazil
Ancelotti soon integrates it into the absolute Brazilian team, where Ribeiro has responded with solid actions. Has proven to be a reliable central, Serene with the ball and fierce in the individual duel. In a few months, It has gone from being a complete stranger to becoming one of the names of the present and future of the Brazilian rear.
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Resilience: He never surrendered, Even when the doors seemed closed. “I spent a year and a half without a team, Testing… And no Brazil club loved me” Ribeiro commented in an interview.
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Tactical discipline: His intelligence in the field has been vital to adapt to elite football.
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Competitive character: Ribeiro not only plays, compete each ball as if it were the last.
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TRACK TRUST TRUST: Ancelotti has managed to see beyond names and bet on performance.
Alex Ribeiro represents a new generation of Brazilian soccer players forged in adversity. Its history inspires because you remember that talent is not always born in elite academies, but sometimes it arises in the streets, Between difficulties, With an old ball and a very clear dream.
We will have to follow its evolution, But if something has made it clear, it is to stay to stay.