Alex: An Underrated Genius

Alexsandro de Souza, commonly known as Alex, is one of those players who left an indelible mark on both Brazilian and world football. Born in Curitiba, Brazil, on September 14, 1977, he stood out not only for his talent but also for his intelligence and vision on the pitch, making him one of the most complete playmakers of his generation.

Alex began his career in the youth ranks of Coritiba, where he made his professional debut in 1995. He quickly emerged as a creative midfielder with a refined touch and an impressive ability to create plays and shoot from distance. These qualities led him to Palmeiras in 1997, where he established himself as one of the big names in Brazilian football.

At Palmeiras, Alex experienced some of the most memorable moments of his career. He was a key player in winning the Copa Mercosur and the Copa do Brasil in 1998 and, more importantly, in the victorious campaign of the Copa Libertadores in 1999, where he was one of the standout performers. His ability to decide crucial matches and his leadership on the field made him a fan favourite at Palmeiras.

In 2000, Alex moved to Europe, with stints at clubs like Parma in Italy and Flamengo on loan. However, it was on his return to Brazil with Cruzeiro in 2001 that he truly shone again. Under the guidance of coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, Alex led the Minas Gerais team to a historic “Triple Crown” in 2003, winning the Minas Gerais State Championship, the Copa do Brasil, and the Brazilian Championship, where he was the main star.

After his success at Cruzeiro, Alex transferred to Fenerbahçe in Turkey in 2004. It was here that he became a true legend. Over eight years with the club, Alex became the captain, top scorer, and the greatest idol in Fenerbahçe’s history, winning several titles, including three Turkish Super League Championships and two Turkish Cups. He also topped the charts for goals and assists for several seasons, and his ability in taking free kicks and corners made him a set-piece specialist.

Alex’s time with Fenerbahçe is remembered as a golden era. His elegant style of play, exceptional vision, and leadership qualities endeared him to Fenerbahçe fans, who saw him as more than just a player but as a symbol of the club’s aspirations and dreams. Even today, his name is sung in the stands, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who witnessed his magic on the pitch.

However, his journey with the Brazilian national team, while significant, did not fully reflect his potential. Alex participated in several competitions, including the 1999 Copa América and the 2003 Confederations Cup, but he never managed to secure a permanent spot as a starter, partly due to the fierce competition for midfield positions at the time.

In 2012, Alex returned to Coritiba, ending his career where it all began. Even in his final playing days, he continued to demonstrate his talent and leadership, helping the team remain competitive on the national stage.

After retiring in 2014, Alex transitioned to a career off the field, becoming a sports commentator and beginning his studies to become a coach. His game intelligence, vision, and the way he always understood football make him a potential future managerial success.

Alex was not just a great player; he represented a style of football that valued technique, intelligence, and flair. His legacy remains alive in the hearts of fans of the clubs he played for and in the history of world football.