Róger Guedes: The Journey of a Brazilian Star
Róger Krug Guedes, known simply as Róger Guedes, is one of Brazil’s most talented footballers. Born on October 2, 1996, in Ibirubá, Rio Grande do Sul, he has risen to prominence in both Brazilian and international football. His skills as a forward, combining speed, technique, and a knack for scoring, have made him a beloved figure among fans and respected by opponents. This article traces Guedes’ journey from his early days in football to his recent achievements, including his time in Brazilian clubs and his ventures abroad.
Early Career
Roots in Ibirubá
Róger Guedes was born in the small town of Ibirubá, Rio Grande do Sul, to a humble family. His love for football was nurtured by his father, and from a young age, Guedes showed talent with the ball, playing street games and local competitions. His passion drove him to seek opportunities with bigger clubs, despite the challenges of living far from Brazil’s major football hubs.
First Steps at Grêmio
At age 10, Róger joined the youth academy of Grêmio, one of Brazil’s most storied clubs. His speed and dribbling ability as a winger caught the attention of coaches, but in 2011, he was released from the club. Though a setback, this experience became a learning moment for the young player, who resolved to pursue his dream relentlessly.
Rise at Criciúma
After leaving Grêmio, Guedes found a new home at Criciúma, a club in Santa Catarina. There, he completed his youth development and began to shine. On November 23, 2014, he made his senior debut for Criciúma in Brazil’s Série A, coming off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Flamengo, where he provided an assist for Cléber Santana’s equalizer.
Two weeks later, on December 6, Guedes scored his first professional goal in a 2-1 loss to Corinthians, tying the game momentarily. These early moments showcased his potential, and he quickly became a key player, despite Criciúma’s relegation to Série B in 2015.
Consolidation at Palmeiras
Signing and Debut
On April 5, 2016, Róger Guedes signed a five-year contract with Palmeiras, one of Brazil’s football giants. The club paid R$2.5 million for 25% of his economic rights, betting on the young talent. He debuted 14 days later in a 2-0 win over São Bernardo FC in the Campeonato Paulista, coming on as a substitute for Alecsandro.
In the 2016 Campeonato Brasileiro, Guedes scored his first goal for Palmeiras in his debut match in the competition, opening the scoring in a 4-0 thrashing of Atlético Paranaense on May 14. Over the season, he played 31 matches and scored four goals, contributing to Palmeiras’ Brazilian championship title, their first in 22 years.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his on-field success, Guedes’ time at Palmeiras was not without challenges. In 2017, a training video sparked controversy, showing Guedes being chased by teammates, restrained, and tied up with wires while coach Cuca and the staff watched. Guedes later revealed this was not an isolated incident, describing physical harassment from teammates who claimed it was meant to “toughen him up” for big games. This deeply affected him and influenced his decision to leave the club.
On January 31, 2017, Guedes renewed his contract with Palmeiras, securing a salary increase and a higher release clause. However, off-field difficulties led to his departure in 2018.
Time at Other Brazilian Clubs
Loan to Atlético Mineiro
On December 27, 2017, Guedes was loaned to Atlético Mineiro in a swap deal involving fullback Marcos Rocha. During his stint, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess, netting 13 goals and providing three assists in 28 matches. His goal-or-assist average was an impressive one every 132 minutes, with a 62% shot accuracy and an average SofaScore rating of 7.21, reflecting his on-field efficiency.
Return to Corinthians
On August 27, 2021, after terminating his contract with Shandong Luneng in China, Guedes signed with Corinthians, the club against which he scored his first professional goal. His arrival was marked by an unusual choice: he wore the No. 123 jersey, as his preferred No. 23—chosen to honor his son’s birthday—was taken by fullback Fagner.
Guedes quickly became a standout at Corinthians. In September 2021, he was named the Brazilian Championship’s Player of the Month by the CBF, scoring crucial goals, including two in a 2-1 win over his former club, Palmeiras. In his first 11 matches for Corinthians, he scored five goals and provided one assist, averaging a goal contribution every 164 minutes.
In the 2022 season, Guedes took the iconic No. 10 shirt after Willian’s departure and continued to shine. He finished the Brasileirão with 16 goals and three assists in 48 matches, leading the team in accurate shots, dribbles, and duels won. His 59% shot accuracy and 80% long-pass accuracy cemented his status as a key player.
International Ventures
Shandong Luneng: A New Chapter
On July 13, 2018, Guedes was loaned to Shandong Luneng in the Chinese Super League for one year, with a mandatory purchase clause of €9.6 million. He debuted on July 28 in a 1-1 draw against Jiangsu Suning. After the transfer was finalized, Guedes became a vital player, contributing to the club’s 2020 Chinese FA Cup victory with a 2-0 win over Jiangsu.
Al-Rayyan: Conquering the Arab World
On August 9, 2023, Guedes signed with Al-Rayyan in the Qatar Stars League. His debut was explosive, scoring the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Al Markhiya on August 17. A week later, he provided an assist in a win against Qatar SC. In his first season, he scored 19 goals and provided five assists. In the 2024/25 season, he raised the bar, scoring 21 goals in 22 matches and winning the Mansour Muftah award as the league’s top scorer. He also scored a penalty in the 2025 Amir Cup final, solidifying his importance to the team.
In total, Guedes has 52 goals and eight assists in 63 matches for Al-Rayyan, numbers that reflect his consistency and ability to decide games.
Playing Style and Characteristics
Versatility on the Pitch
Róger Guedes is a versatile forward, capable of playing as a winger, center-forward, or attacking midfielder. His speed, dribbling, and shooting accuracy make him a constant threat. He is known for drawing fouls (98 in the 2022 Brasileirão) and his efficiency in long passes (80% accuracy). His ability to create chances and finish with precision places him among the most complete players of his generation.
Mentality and Resilience
Despite challenges, such as the controversies at Palmeiras, Guedes has shown resilience throughout his career. He turned criticism into motivation, drawing on his father’s lessons to stay focused and grow as a player. His ability to adapt to different leagues, from Brazil to China and Qatar, is a testament to his determination.
Legacy and Future
At 28, Róger Guedes is at the peak of his career. His journey, marked by highs and lows, is a story of perseverance and talent. He has won major titles, including the 2016 Brasileirão with Palmeiras, the 2020 Chinese FA Cup with Shandong Luneng, and the 2025 Amir Cup with Al-Rayyan. His top-scorer award in the Qatar Stars League further underscores his international relevance.
Looking ahead, Guedes has the potential to return to Brazilian football or explore European markets, where his technique and goal-scoring ability could shine. His story inspires young players to persevere through adversity and believe in their potential.
Conclusion
Róger Guedes is more than a footballer; he is a symbol of talent and resilience. From the fields of Ibirubá to the pitches of Qatar, he has built an admirable career marked by goals, assists, and titles. His journey embodies the essence of Brazilian football: passion, skill, and perseverance. As Guedes continues to write his story, fans eagerly await his next chapters, confident that he has much more to offer the sport.
