Full Name: Joelinton Cássio Apolinário de Lira
Date of Birth: 14 August 1996
Place of Birth: Aliança, Brazil
Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position(s): Central Midfielder
Current Club: Newcastle United
Jersey Number: 7
In the sun-drenched lands of Aliança, Pernambuco, a boy's heart danced with dreams that stretched far beyond the dusty fields of his youth. From the tender age when innocence still held sway, Joelinton's spirit soared with the echoes of his aspirations.
Through trials and triumphs, he forged his path from the embrace of family to the grandeur of global stages. His transformation from a hopeful child into a celebrated player mirrors his steadfast spirit and relentless pursuit of being better.
Below Are Interesting facts about Joelinton from childhood in Brazil
Joelinton Parents / Family Background
Joelinton's family background is a cornerstone of his story. Raised in Aliança, Pernambuco, Joelinton grew up in a modest but supportive household. His mother, Silvania, worked as a cook and cleaner, juggling multiple jobs to support the family. His father, Jorge, was employed at a sugar cane power plant.
Despite their demanding jobs, Joelinton's parents instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance. He made money delivering hot dogs and pastries from his aunt's market. He avoided being the goalkeeper and would hide from his mother when it was time to end the game.
1. He was Born in Aliança, Pernambuco
Born in Aliança, Pernambuco, a charming town in northeastern Brazil, Joelinton experienced a childhood immersed in vibrant culture and rich traditions. This close-knit community, filled with family and friends' warmth and support, provided the perfect backdrop for his budding football career. His early football days on a barren pitch, where cows and bulls were common obstacles, were foundational to his development as a player.
2. He Started His Career with Sport Recife's Youth Academy
Driven by his enthusiasm for football, Joelinton joined Sport Recife's Youth Academy, starting his professional journey. At 14, he left home to join the Sport Recife academy. His relentless effort and determination characterised the academy years, allowing him to refine his abilities and deepen his knowledge of the game.
3. He Scored His First Career Goal Against Fluminense
In 2014, after stepping up to Sport Recife's senior team, Joelinton etched his name in the spotlight by scoring his inaugural professional goal against Fluminense in November. This notable event showcased his abilities and ignited his aspiration for greater success in football.
4. He joined Hoffenheim in 2015 Before A Two-Year Loan to Rapid Wien
In 2015, Joelinton's talent caught the attention of European scouts, leading to his transfer to Hoffenheim. This move to the German Bundesliga marked a significant step in his career, providing him with the opportunity to compete at a higher level and gain invaluable experience.
After scoring a few goals, Joelinton was loaned to Rapid Wien for two years starting in 2016. During his time in Austria, he impressed fans and critics alike with his performances, gaining confidence and maturity on the field. His success at Rapid Wien paved the way for his return to Hoffenheim.
5. His Arm Scar is A Testament to His Resilience From A Childhood Accident
Joelinton bears a distinctive scar on his upper left arm, a permanent reminder of a significant childhood incident. At the age of 12, while attempting to hitch a ride on a truck to reach a football match, he fell and cut his arm.
This injury, which required several botched operations to repair, became a symbol of both pain and resilience for him. Despite the seriousness of the accident, Joelinton chose to conceal the truth from his mother, fearing punishment that might have kept him from playing the sport he loved.
6. Newcastle came calling in 2019
Joelinton's impressive displays in 2019 secured him a transfer to Newcastle United. The Premier League club saw his potential and brought him to England, where he faced new challenges and opportunities in one of the world's most competitive leagues.
7. He was converted from a striker to a midfielder under Eddie Howe
Having struggled to make a major impact as the leading striker, Joelinton underwent a significant transformation under the guidance of Newcastle's manager Eddie Howe, transitioning from a striker to a midfielder. This strategic change allowed him to utilise his versatility and strengths more effectively, contributing significantly to the team's success.
The Brazilian credited Eddie Howe for believing in him saying as the Mail quoted: ‘He’s done a lot for me from day one. He’s a great coach, a great man. I love him. I have a lot of respect for him. He changed my career. He and his staff changed things, they gave me a new mentality and helped my football. I will be grateful forever.’
8. He was Newcastle United's Player of the Year for the 2021–22 Season
Joelinton's hard work and dedication paid off under Eddie Howe as he became a box-to-box midfielder and was named Newcastle United's Player of the Year for the 2021–22 season. This accolade was a testament to his outstanding performances, and vital role in the team's achievements, and it showed that Eddie Howe's decision was right.
9. He is A Family Man
Off the pitch, Joelinton is a devoted family man. He had been in a relationship with Thays Gondim for nine years before they married in May 2024. The strong support from his wife and their three children has been crucial in his journey, providing him with stability and motivation to excel personally and professionally. His phone screensaver includes his son, and he recently returned to Sport Recife with his son to show him where his career began.
10. He Has Been a Victim of Burglary
Despite his success, Joelinton has faced significant challenges, including a burglary at his home on January 13, 2024. This unsettling experience tested his resilience, but he remained focused and determined as he pursued his passion for football with unwavering commitment.
11. He Had A Memorable Moment with Pope Francis
During his time with Rapid Vienna, Joelinton had a memorable encounter with Pope Francis. Amidst a squad introduction at the Vatican, Joelinton seized the opportunity to ask the Holy Father for a hug.
The Pope graciously agreed, and the moment left a profound impact on Joelinton. It was a touching gesture that highlighted his deep respect and personal connection to his faith, as well as the surreal nature of his rapid ascent from a young footballer in Brazil to an international stage.
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