When it comes to the UEFA Champions League, it takes more than just talent to shine – it takes passion, flair, and a little bit of samba magic. And who better to bring that spirit to Europe’s biggest stage than Brazil?
From the dazzling dribbles to thunderous free-kicks, Brazilian players have ingrained their magic into the fabric of the Champions League in ways few can replicate, forever making their samba rhythm a part of European football’s soundtrack.
Below Are the Top 10 Brazilian Players With Most Champions League Appearances
10. Lúcio (83 Appearances)
Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Juventus
A colossus at the back and an unyielding presence in the heart of defence, Lúcio’s Champions League appearances tell the story of an extraordinary defender. Lúcio earned his place among the best by playing for clubs with Champions League pedigree, notably Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.
His most memorable contribution came in 2010, as part of Inter's historic treble-winning side, where he helped the club secure their third European Cup. Every match was a battleground and Lúcio stood tall, proving the worth of Brazilian defenders on Europe’s biggest stage.
9. Casemiro (83 Appearances)
Real Madrid, Porto, Manchester United
Casemiro, one of the finest defensive midfielders in modern football, made waves in the Champions League with his tenacious tackling and unshakable presence in the middle of the park.
Starting at Porto before solidifying his place at Real Madrid, the Brazilian’s tough-as-nails playing style was integral to Madrid’s 2016, 2017, and 2018 Champions League successes.
As the protector of the defence, his aggressive ball-winning ability allowed his attacking teammates to shine with the freedom they needed. Although he currently plies his trade at Manchester United, Casemiro's Champions League memories will always be tied to the ‘Galácticos’ of Madrid.
8. Kaká (86 Appearances)
AC Milan, Real Madrid
In a list dominated by warriors, Kaká stood as the magician – the playmaker, the visionary. The Brazilian attacking midfielder was an embodiment of elegance, dancing across the pitch with effortless grace. His 2007 Ballon d'Or triumph after helping AC Milan lift the Champions League that year stands as one of the defining moments of his career.
Kaká may not have matched the sheer number of appearances made by some of his compatriots, but in the moments he was present on the European stage, he made an impact, blending flair with decisive moments of brilliance. It’s no wonder Milan fans still revere him today.
7. Maxwell (94 Appearances)
Ajax, Inter Milan, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain
A true professional and a model of consistency, Maxwell made his mark in European football at some of the biggest clubs in the world. Whether it was in Ajax’s exciting youth teams or the imperious Barcelona side that won everything under Pep Guardiola, Maxwell was often the unsung hero.
He was known for his ability to bomb down the left flank, and his service from the wing became a deadly weapon. Moving to Paris Saint-Germain in 2012, he played his part in PSG’s rise to prominence in European football, though he remained the quiet craftsman, preferring his actions to speak louder than words. His Champions League appearances paint a picture of dedication and reliability.
6. Marquinhos (97 Appearances)
Paris Saint-Germain
A modern-day titan at the back, Marquinhos’ consistency and leadership in defence have seen him establish himself as one of the best centre-backs in world football. It is Paris Saint-Germain who have reaped the rewards of this Brazilian's prowess, making him an indispensable part of their Champions League journey.
His maturity beyond his years has been vital in PSG’s domestic and continental success. Though the Champions League trophy still eludes him, Marquinhos has grown into one of the best Brazilian defenders to grace the competition in recent years.
5. Marcelo (102 Appearances)
Real Madrid
Few players have left such a lasting imprint on the Champions League as Marcelo. The samba-playing left-back, famed for his free-spirited attacking runs, became a symbol of Real Madrid’s dominance in European football. A player of extraordinary skill and vision, Marcelo became the heartbeat of Madrid’s defence while also adding an attacking flair that few could match.
His four Champions League titles with the club are proof of his unrivalled work ethic and ability to rise on the grandest stage. Whether it was defending against the fiercest attackers or scoring key goals, Marcelo was a true European legend.
4. Fernandinho (103 Appearances)
Shakhtar Donetsk, Manchester City
Fernandinho’s Champions League story is one marked by persistence and evolution. Starting with Shakhtar Donetsk, he displayed his midfield dominance, but it was at Manchester City where his stock truly soared.
Under Manuel Pellegrini and later Pep Guardiola, Fernandinho became the linchpin of City’s midfield, breaking up attacks, providing cover, and distributing the ball with an elegance that belied his workhorse status. His influence was undeniable in City's rise to the pinnacle of European football, though he departed in 2022—just a year before the club finally lifted the coveted trophy.
3. Thiago Silva (105 Appearances)
AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea
An imperious presence, a natural leader, and a player of almost endless composure, Thiago Silva’s Champions League career is one of the most distinguished of any Brazilian.
Starting in Milan, he formed part of one of the best-defended teams in Europe before his move to Paris Saint-Germain. He would lead PSG to the final in 2020, eventually securing his Champions League glory with Chelsea in 2021 under Thomas Tuchel, a fitting capstone to his storied career.
Known for his tactical intelligence and calmness under pressure, Silva was a fixture in top-flight football, consistently proving his worth across multiple European giants, notching a total of 105 appearances in Europe's elite competition.
2. Dani Alves (111 Appearances)
Sevilla, Barcelona, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain
Few players have made as much of an impact on the Champions League as Dani Alves, making a total of 111 appearances in the competition. With his tireless energy and relentless attacking runs from right-back, Alves made his presence felt at every club he played for in the competition.
From his Champions League glory days at Barcelona, where he played a central role in their iconic team, to his more recent successes at Paris Saint-Germain, Alves’ versatility and determination have made him a fixture in Europe’s most prestigious club tournament.
His ability to combine defensive responsibility with offensive support set him apart as one of the competition’s greats and one of Barcelona's best right-backs of all-time.
1. Roberto Carlos (120 Appearances)
Real Madrid, Fenerbahçe
At number one, we have a true icon of the game. Roberto Carlos, whose name is synonymous with world-class defending and breathtaking attacking play, made more Champions League appearances than any other Brazilian.
His legacy at Real Madrid is cemented in gold, having played an integral part in the team’s Champions League victories in the late 90s and early 2000s. From his thunderous free kicks to his relentless pace down the left flank, Carlos was one of the greatest full-backs ever to grace the competition.
His consistency, his leadership, and his unyielding drive made him a symbol of European success, and his 120 appearances are a fitting tribute to his influence on the Champions League.
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