Éverton Augusto de Barros Ribeiro is one of the most prominent names in Brazilian football, renowned for his skill as an attacking midfielder and his ability to decide crucial matches. Born on April 10, 1989, in Arujá, São Paulo, he grew up in Santa Isabel and built a career filled with titles and unforgettable moments. At 36 years old in 2025, Éverton continues to play for Esporte Clube Bahia, where he has become a key figure in midfield. His journey includes stints at major clubs like Corinthians, Cruzeiro, and Flamengo, as well as call-ups to the Brazilian national team.
Early Life and Youth Development
Éverton Ribeiro’s journey in sports began early. At three, he practiced judo and won a São Paulo state title in the children’s category, showing discipline and determination from a young age. At five, he joined a football school at Santa Isabel Futebol Clube, where his love for the game blossomed. At nine, he passed a trial for Portuguesa’s futsal team, earning awards as the best player and revelation in his first tournament. Later, he transitioned to field football with the same club.
In 2001, at 12, he joined Corinthians’ youth academy, initially as a left-back. There, he adapted to a professional environment and was promoted to the senior team by coach Paulo César Carpegiani. His professional debut came on April 7, 2007, against América de Rio Preto, marking the start of a career that would lead to national and international success. A left-footed player standing at 1.74 meters, Éverton earned nicknames like ER7, Miteiro, and Baixola, reflecting his personality and playing style.
Professional Club Career
Éverton Ribeiro’s career is marked by strategic transfers and consistent performances across various leagues.
Corinthians and São Caetano (2007–2011): At Corinthians, between 2007 and 2011, he played 18 matches without scoring but gained valuable experience. In 2008, he was loaned to São Caetano, where he played 99 games, scored eight goals, and provided 27 assists, transitioning to an attacking midfielder role. This period was pivotal for his development.
Coritiba (2011–2012): In February 2011, he joined Coritiba for around 1.5 million reais. He shone, scoring 20 goals in 81 games and helping the team win the Paranaense Championship in 2011 and 2012. He scored decisive goals, such as in the Copa do Brasil semifinal against São Paulo, and was the team’s second-top scorer in 2012.
Cruzeiro (2013–2015): In January 2013, Cruzeiro signed him for four million reais. Éverton quickly became a fan favorite, scoring 23 goals in 108 games. On August 21, 2013, he scored a stunning volley against Flamengo in the Copa do Brasil, earning a commemorative plaque at Mineirão. He led the Brasileirão in assists in 2013 and 2014, helping Cruzeiro win the national title in both seasons and the Minas Gerais Championship unbeaten in 2014. Named the league’s best player in both years, he solidified his status as a star.
Al-Ahli (2015–2017): In February 2015, he moved to Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates for 15 million euros. He debuted with a goal against Al Sharjah and, in 106 games, scored 26 goals and provided 25 assists. He won five titles, including the UAE Super Cup in 2015 and 2016. This stint enhanced his game vision and prepared him for his return to Brazil.
Flamengo (2017–2023): Flamengo brought him back in June 2017 for six million euros. Over six years, he played 394 matches, scored 46 goals, and provided numerous assists. He was the standout in the 2019 Carioca Championship and won titles like the Libertadores (2019, 2022), Brasileirão (2019, 2020), Supercopa do Brasil (2020), and Recopa Sudamericana (2020). In 2018 and 2020, he scored the Brasileirão’s most beautiful goals against Cruzeiro. In 2022, he played a record 63 games and assisted in the Libertadores final. He left in December 2023, leaving a legacy of 11 trophies.
Bahia (2024–Present): Since January 2024, Éverton has played for Bahia, with a contract until December 2025, extendable. He debuted scoring in a friendly and officially against Jacobina. In 2024, he played 61 matches, scoring six goals and providing nine assists, helping Bahia qualify for the 2025 Libertadores. In 2025, up to October, he played 40 games, scoring two goals and giving five assists, including in the Copa do Nordeste final against Confiança in September. In the Brasileirão, he has one goal in 11 games, showcasing leadership and vision.
Brazilian National Team
Éverton represented Brazil’s youth teams, playing in the 2007 Sendai Cup (U-18) and winning the 2009 South American U-20 Championship. He debuted for the senior team in 2014 under Dunga. He participated in the 2015 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, the 2021 Copa América (where he was named the best player, finished as runner-up, and scored against Peru), and the 2022 World Cup, playing against Cameroon. In 22 matches, he scored three goals and provided one assist.
Titles and Individual Awards
Éverton’s trophy cabinet is impressive. At Corinthians, he won the São Paulo Youth Cup (2007). At Coritiba, the Paranaense Championship (2011, 2012). At Cruzeiro, the Brasileirão (2013, 2014) and Minas Gerais Championship (2014). At Al-Ahli, five local titles. At Flamengo, the Carioca Championship (2019, 2020), Libertadores (2019, 2022), Brasileirão (2019, 2020), and more. At Bahia, he secured Libertadores qualification and the Bahia Championship in 2025. With Brazil, he won the 2009 South American U-20 Championship and was runner-up in the 2021 Copa América.
Individually, he was the Brasileirão’s best player in 2013 and 2014, won Placar’s Bola de Ouro in 2013, scored the league’s most beautiful goals in 2018 and 2020, was the Carioca Championship’s best player in 2019, and led in assists in multiple tournaments.
Playing Style and Characteristics
Éverton is a versatile midfielder, capable of playing as a playmaker or winger. His game vision, precise dribbling, and decisive passes make him unpredictable. His volleys and penalties, like the iconic 2013 goal against Flamengo, are trademarks. Despite his age, he maintains refined technique and on-field leadership.
Personal Life and Recent Updates
Off the pitch, Éverton is married to Marília Nery and values family. In October 2025, he revealed a thyroid cancer diagnosis from a month earlier but continued playing, including against Flamengo. On October 6, he underwent successful surgery and shared the news on social media, asking for prayers and expressing optimism about recovery. “We’ll win this battle together,” he said, showing strength of character. Fans and the football community rallied in support, highlighting his courage.
Legacy and Future
With over 864 matches, 129 goals, and 159 assists by October 2025, Éverton Ribeiro leaves a legacy of resilience and talent. His time at major clubs and with the national team inspires new generations. At Bahia, he is expected to keep contributing, especially in the 2025 Libertadores, as he recovers. His story is a testament to dedication to football and life.
