Alexsandro: The Unlikely Rise of Brazil’s Newest Defender
In a surprise move, Brazilian defender Alexsandro has been called up to the national team by coach Carlo Ancelotti, according to a report by OneFootball.com. The Lille defender was relatively unknown in Brazil until his impressive performances in the French league caught the attention of Ancelotti.
The 24-year-old defender has been making waves in the football world with his outstanding defensive skills, and his inclusion in the national team is seen as a testament to his hard work and dedication. Alexsandro’s journey to the national team is an inspiring one, having overcome numerous obstacles to achieve his dream.
According to OneFootball.com, Alexsandro’s impressive performance in the French league was not limited to just one game. In the 2024-25 season, he played 47 games for Lille, helping the team to have the second-best defense in the Ligue 1. His consistent displays earned him a call-up to the national team, and he could make his debut against Ecuador on Thursday.
The Brazilian defender’s rise to prominence began when he was just 18 years old and without a professional contract. He had to abandon his football career temporarily to work informal jobs, such as collecting cans and working as a market stallholder. However, his determination and resilience saw him bounce back, and he eventually joined the Portuguese club Praiense, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of other clubs.
Alexsandro’s big break came when he joined Lille in the 2022-23 season for around €2 million. He quickly established himself as a key player, making 23 appearances in his first season and 42 in his second. His impressive performances earned him praise from his peers, including his idol, Marquinhos.
"Marquinhos is a reference for me," Alexsandro told OneFootball.com‘s affiliate, zerozero. "Inside the field, he’s a leader, and outside, he’s an incredible guy. I can talk to him, exchange shirts… He’s very friendly, and I’m a huge fan of him."
Alexsandro’s journey to the national team is a testament to his hard work and dedication. In an interview with GE, he revealed that he had overcome numerous obstacles to achieve his dream. "I’ve suffered a lot, but today it’s not a problem anymore," he said. "I’ve worked hard to get here, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved."
The Lille defender’s call-up to the national team has sent shockwaves through the football world, with many pundits hailing him as a dark horse. As he prepares to make his debut against Ecuador, Alexsandro will be looking to prove himself on the biggest stage.
With his impressive defensive skills and inspiring journey, Alexsandro is set to become a household name in Brazilian football. As reported by OneFootball.com, his inclusion in the national team is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and fans will be eagerly watching his progress in the coming weeks.
In related news, Alexsandro’s teammate, Marquinhos, has praised the young defender’s skills, saying that he has a bright future ahead of him. As the Brazilian national team prepares for their upcoming fixtures, Alexsandro’s name is on everyone’s lips, and he will be looking to prove himself as a valuable addition to the team.
The 25-year-old defender has come a long way from his humble beginnings, and his story serves as an inspiration to young footballers around the world. With his feet firmly on the ground and his eyes fixed on the future, Alexsandro is set to become a star of Brazilian football.
