Deco Net Worth

Deco, born Anderson Luís de Souza in São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, in August 1977, is a retired Portuguese professional footballer with an estimated net worth of $25 million. Renowned for his creativity, vision, and technical mastery in midfield, Deco became one of the most celebrated playmakers of his generation, earning success across several major European clubs.

Early Life

Born and raised in Brazil, Deco began his football journey at Corinthians, one of the country’s most successful clubs. His impressive performances earned him a move to Europe, where he joined Portuguese side Alverca, followed by Salgueiros. It was in Portugal that Deco’s career began to flourish, eventually paving the way for his transfer to FC Porto, where he would reach global stardom.

Rise to Stardom at Porto and Barcelona
At FC Porto, Deco became a central figure under coach José Mourinho, helping the club achieve an incredible run that culminated in winning the UEFA Champions League in 2004. That same year, he was named UEFA Club Footballer of the Year and received the UEFA Best Midfielder Award.

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His exceptional form led to a high-profile move to FC Barcelona in 2004 for €15 million, where he continued to shine as a midfield maestro. With Barcelona, Deco won another UEFA Champions League title in 2006 and the FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball, cementing his place among Europe’s elite players. Remarkably, he became the first player ever to win the UEFA Best Midfielder Award with two different clubs — Porto and Barcelona.

Chelsea

In 2008, Deco signed with Chelsea for €10 million, joining the Premier League and adding another chapter to his successful career. Although plagued by injuries toward the end of his tenure in Europe, he continued to display flashes of brilliance. Deco later returned to Brazil, where he played for Fluminense before retiring in 2013 following persistent hamstring injuries.

International Career with Portugal

Having lived in Portugal for over five years, Deco acquired Portuguese citizenship in 2002 and began representing the Portugal national team in 2003. He played a vital role in Portugal’s campaigns at two FIFA World Cups and two UEFA European Championships, becoming one of the few naturalized players to earn widespread respect and admiration from fans.

Awards

Throughout his career, Deco’s talent earned him numerous individual honors, including the 2004 Silver Ball Ballon d’Or, UEFA Club Footballer of the Year, and the FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball in 2006. His exceptional midfield vision and leadership made him a key figure in every team he played for.

Personal Life

Off the field, Deco is known for his philanthropy, particularly through the Deco Institute, a charitable organization he founded near São Paulo to support youth development through education and sports. He has been married twice and is a father of five children.

Deco Net Worth

Deco net worth is estimated to be $25 million.