FootballerBrazilianExpatriateRio de Janeiro

João Carlos (footballer, born 1982)

João Carlos (born 1982) is a Brazilian former professional central defender who played in Brazil, Bulgaria, Belgium, Russia, and the UAE, winning titles in Bulgaria and Belgium.

1. Early life and background

João Carlos Pinto Chaves was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on January 1, 1982. He stands at 74 in (189 cm) tall and weighs 176 lb (80 kg).

2. Club career

João Carlos had a distinguished professional career, playing across multiple countries and clubs throughout two decades.

2.1. Early career in Brazil and Bulgaria

João Carlos began his professional football journey in Brazil with Vasco da Gama in 2001. After his initial stint in Brazil, he moved to Europe, joining the Bulgarian powerhouse CSKA Sofia in 2002. He played there until 2004, where his strong performances garnered significant attention from clubs in Western Europe.

2.2. Success in Belgium

In July 2004, João Carlos transferred to Belgian club Sporting Lokeren, where he played for four successful seasons until June 2008. His impactful play in Belgium led to a move to KRC Genk in June 2008, where he signed a four-year contract. At Genk, he became a key figure, serving as captain and playing an instrumental role in the team's victory in the 2008-09 Belgian Cup.

2.3. Stint in Russia

In January 2011, João Carlos attracted interest from multiple clubs in the Russian Premier League, including Anzhi Makhachkala and Kuban Krasnodar. On January 29, 2011, he officially completed his transfer to Anzhi Makhachkala, signing a three-year contract. He remained with Anzhi until 2013 before moving to Spartak Moscow, where he played from 2013 to 2015.

João Carlos in 2012, during his time with Anzhi Makhachkala.
João Carlos in 2012, during his time with Anzhi Makhachkala.

2.4. Later career and retirement

Following his time in Russia, João Carlos returned to Brazil for a brief period, rejoining CR Vasco da Gama in 2015. In 2016, he made another return to Belgium, playing again for Sporting Lokeren. His career then took him to the United Arab Emirates, where he played for Al-Jazira Club from 2016 to 2017. He concluded his professional football career in Brazil, playing for Madureira EC in 2018 before retiring.

3. Honours

João Carlos achieved several notable team titles and individual accolades throughout his professional career.

  • PFC CSKA Sofia
    • A Group: 2002-03
  • KRC Genk
    • Belgian Cup: 2008-09