Now you’re back at Gremio, you’ve played for just three different clubs in a 16-year career. Is loyalty important to you?
Actually, I never planned that! I didn’t think I’d stay 10 years at Liverpool or five at Lazio. When I first arrived from Brazil, I thought I’d play maybe 12 years in Europe before going home and retiring at 35. But I’m 36 now and feeling pretty good. Perhaps the secret is that wherever I’ve been, I’ve created roots with both the club and the fans. I spent almost five years at Gremio, including time in the academy at the start of my journey. Then at Liverpool, despite a tough start, I always felt I was able to contribute, so I stayed and stayed. I eventually lost my place in the
