Roberto Carlos (footballer)

Roberto Carlos (footballer)

Roberto Carlos da Silva Rocha (born 10 April 1973), more commonly known simply as Roberto Carlos, is a retired Brazilian footballer who works as a sporting director for Russian Premier League club Anzhi Makhachkala. Roberto Carlos has spent most of his career as a left wingback but started his career in Brazil as a forward. He started playing for Brazil in 1992 and was a member of the Brazil national team in three World Cups, helping the team reach the final in 1998 and win the 2002 tournament. He is also known for his running speed, long throw ins and trademark free kicks with power and curve.

He previously played for Spanish La Liga club Real Madrid for 11 years, making over 370 appearances and winning four leagues, three UEFA Champions League trophies, and two Intercontinental Cups. Roberto Carlos is also one of only 19 players to have

played more than 100 matches in the Champions League. He finished second to countryman Ronaldo in the 1997 FIFA World Player of the Year award poll and was named as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers by Pelé in March 2004. He announced his retirement 2 August 2012 at the age of 39, right before the start of the 2012 - 2013 season.