Introduction
Alexander Nahuel Barboza Ullúa, better known as Alexander Barboza, is an Argentine footballer who has made a significant mark on the international stage, particularly in Brazilian football. Born on March 16, 1995, in Villa Celina, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, Barboza, now 30, plays as a central defender. Standing at 1.93 meters (6’4″) and left-footed, he is renowned for his physical strength, aerial prowess, and determination on the pitch. Nicknamed “El Matador” for his intense and aggressive playing style, Barboza, who is naturalized Uruguayan through his father’s roots, has expressed a desire to represent the Uruguayan national team, stating that his “blood is Charrúa.” Currently, he plays for Botafogo, a Brazilian club where he has become a cornerstone, contributing to historic achievements. His career, marked by loans, transfers, and resilience, culminated in major titles in 2024 and a solid 2025 season.
Barboza began his journey in the youth ranks of River Plate, one of Argentina’s biggest clubs, and faced numerous challenges before establishing himself as a professional. His career includes stints at Argentine and Paraguayan clubs, and more recently in Brazil, where he found stability and recognition. Beyond his technical skills, Barboza is known for his leadership, having captained teams, and his strong personality, which sometimes leads to excessive yellow cards. In 2025, he remains a key starter for Botafogo, competing in national and international tournaments, and was recently featured in a club-produced documentary.
Early Career and Development
Alexander Barboza’s football journey began at age 10 when he joined River Plate’s youth academy in 2005. Growing up in Villa Celina, a humble neighborhood in La Matanza, Greater Buenos Aires, football was both a passion and an escape. Raised in a modest family, his Uruguayan father shaped his cultural identity. Barboza quickly progressed through River’s youth ranks, showing promise as a defender. By 2014, he was promoted to the reserve team, where he became a regular starter under coach Facundo Villalba.
However, opportunities in River Plate’s first team were scarce due to fierce competition. Barboza made his professional debut in 2014 but played only six matches without scoring between 2014 and 2019. The lack of playing time led him to seek loans for experience. In 2015, he was loaned to Atlético de Rafaela, debuting in a 5–1 loss to River Plate, where he scored his team’s only goal. At Rafaela, he played 13 matches in the Argentine Championship and two in the Copa Argentina, scoring once. The loan ended early but provided valuable lessons.
Stints at Defensa y Justicia
In 2016, Barboza was loaned to Defensa y Justicia for the 2016–17 Argentine Championship, with no loan fee or purchase option. This move marked his breakout. Becoming an undisputed starter and occasional captain, he was a defensive linchpin. He played 48 matches and scored seven goals in his first stint, showcasing not only defensive solidity but also offensive contributions from set pieces.
A highlight was the 2017 Copa Sudamericana, where Defensa y Justicia eliminated São Paulo with a 0–0 draw at home and a 1–1 draw at Morumbi. Barboza returned to the club in January 2018 for another one-year loan, adding 47 matches and two goals. This period was crucial for his growth, as he gained confidence and maturity in high-pressure continental competitions. However, upon returning to River Plate, he again struggled to break into the first team, creating tensions with coach Marcelo Gallardo, who did not prioritize him.
Transfers to Independiente and Libertad
In July 2019, Barboza was permanently transferred to Independiente, which acquired 82.5% of his economic rights for a four-year contract. He played 27 matches and scored one goal between 2019 and 2021 for the “Rojo.” Despite showing quality, his time there was marred by the club’s instability and restructuring. In February 2021, Libertad of Paraguay signed him for $1.7 million for 50% of his rights, securing a three-year deal.
At Libertad, Barboza thrived, playing 113 matches and scoring eight goals until 2023. He became a defensive pillar, competing at a high level in the Copa Libertadores and Paraguayan league, contributing to strong campaigns. His performances caught the eye of Brazilian clubs, leading to negotiations by late 2023.
Arrival at Botafogo and Adaptation to Brazilian Football
In December 2023, Barboza initially agreed to join Fortaleza, but Botafogo hijacked the deal, announcing him as a signing in January 2024 with a contract until 2026. He debuted on January 17, 2024, in a 1–0 win over Madureira in the Campeonato Carioca. Adapting to Brazilian football was challenging; Barboza recently revealed he nearly left Botafogo early in 2024, frustrated with being a substitute. “I’m a guy who doesn’t like not playing. Thank God they didn’t let me go,” he said in an interview.
Over time, he became a mainstay, forming a solid center-back partnership. His first goal for Botafogo came on October 24, 2024, in a 5–0 win over Peñarol in the Copa Libertadores semifinal. By May 2025, Barboza has played 68 matches and scored one goal for the club, with impressive stats in tackles and interceptions. In 2025, he continued to contribute, scoring in July against Bragantino in a 2–0 win alongside Álvaro Montoro. However, his intensity has led to disciplinary issues; in October 2025, he leads the Brazilian Championship in yellow cards, with 11 in 17 matches.
Achievements and Key Moments at Botafogo
Barboza’s achievements with Botafogo mark the pinnacle of his career. In 2024, he was a starter in the Copa Libertadores final, where Botafogo defeated Atlético Mineiro 3–1 on November 30, winning the title for the first time in the club’s history. Barboza was named to the tournament’s ideal team, with Botafogo dominating with eight players. He also contributed to the club’s third Brazilian Championship title, defeating São Paulo in the final on December 8, though he was suspended due to yellow cards. Additionally, he won the Taça Rio in March 2024, securing a spot in the 2025 Copa do Brasil.
Individual accolades include an unprecedented trophy in the Libertadores final in December 2024, inclusion in the Brazilian Championship’s ideal team, and selection to the South American ideal XI by El País. These feats have made Barboza a fan favorite, admired for his grit and dedication. In 2025, Botafogo remains competitive, with Barboza playing key matches, such as a 2–0 loss to Internacional in October, where he clashed with referee Flávio Rodrigues de Souza.
Personal Life and Influences
Off the pitch, Barboza is a family man, proud of his Villa Celina roots. His Uruguayan father inspired his naturalization, and he dreams of playing for Uruguay’s national team. He maintains strong ties to his community, and Botafogo produced a documentary, The Pride of Villa Celina, released on October 12, 2025, on Botafogo TV. The film chronicles his journey from a humble childhood to championship glory, including insights into his near-departure from the club in 2024.
Barboza is married and values family stability, which helps him cope with football’s pressures. He has expressed past frustrations with Gallardo at River Plate but focuses on the present. In events like Botafogo’s “Children’s Day Special” in October 2025, he engaged with young fans, showcasing his charismatic side.
Recent Updates in 2025
In 2025, Barboza remains with Botafogo, with a market value estimated at €5 million by Transfermarkt. He has played key matches, including against Palmeiras in August and Bragantino in July, where he scored. However, discipline remains a concern: with 21 cards in 39 matches this season, including 11 yellows in the Brazilian Championship, his fiery nature is evident. In October, he featured in the loss to Internacional and is at risk of suspension for upcoming games.
The documentary released on October 12, 2025, highlights his resilience, revealing that club owner John Textor convinced him to stay in 2024. Botafogo is set to face Flamengo soon, with Barboza likely to start. His next match is scheduled for October 15, 2025. Updated stats show defensive solidity, with strong ratings on platforms like Sofascore (average of 6.4 in recent games).
Statistics and Legacy
Barboza’s career totals include approximately 322 matches and 19 goals: 6 with River Plate, 13 with Rafaela, 95 with Defensa y Justicia, 27 with Independiente, 113 with Libertad, and 68 with Botafogo as of May 2025. His aerial strength and leadership make him invaluable. In 2025, he continues to improve, aiming for more titles.
Conclusion
Alexander Barboza embodies resilience in football: from uncertain loans to continental champion. At Botafogo, he found a home and glory, inspiring fans with his determination. At 30, his future promises more triumphs, in Brazil or beyond. His story, told in the recent documentary, motivates young athletes to persevere. Barboza is not just a defender; he is the pride of Villa Celina and South American football.
