Clubs: Fluminense FC, Real Madrid CF

UEFA honours
UEFA.com users' Team of the Year: 2011

• After two seasons in the Fluminense first team, during which he represented Brazil at Under-17, U20 and senior level, he joined Madrid in January 2007, signing a six-year contract.

• Kept out of the side initially by Roberto Carlos, he became a regular in 2007/08 after the Brazilian's departure for Fenerbahçe SK, starting 24 Liga matches as Madrid won the title, plus six in the UEFA Champions League.

• Struck his first goals for Madrid in 2008/09 – four in eight starts after being moved into midfield by coach Juande Ramos.

• Won bronze for Brazil at the 2008 Olympic Games, playing in all six matches, but made just one appearance in 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying – a 1-1 draw in Ecuador.

• Scored on his senior debut for Brazil – in a 2-0 win against Wales at White Hart Lane, London in September 2006.