Bio

A late bloomer on the international stage, Felipe Melo has emerged as a reliable and fierce defensive midfielder for Brazil over the past year. His journeyman ascension to the national team came after he played for seven different clubs in Brazil, Spain and Italy. It also earned him a transfer to Serie A's Juventus, which acquired him from rival Fiorentina for 18.5 million Euros and two players. Felipe Melo's play for Fiorentina during the 2008-09 season got the attention of Brazil coach Dunga, who made him a surprise call-up for a 2-0 friendly win over Italy on Feb. 10, 2009. He's been a fixture in the lineup since, and was lauded for his play as Brazil won the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa last summer. He hasn't had the same success at Juventus this season, and his disciplinary issues have been at the forefront. He's among the league leaders in yellow cards and ejections. Felipe Melo is known for his rugged play and knack for winning balls in the midfield. He's also an excellent passer and can transition Brazil into an offensive rush while getting the ball to playmaker Kaka or spraying it toward the wings. If Brazil is going to make a run at a sixth World Cup title, it'll need Felipe Melo to improve upon his play with Juventus and regain the form he showed at last summer's Confederations Cup.

Player Stats