Introduction Matheus Fellipe Costa Pereira, known simply as Matheus Pereira, is one of the most exciting names in contemporary Brazilian football. Born on May 5, 1996, in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, this 29-year-old has won hearts with his innate talent for the game. Standing at 1.75 m and naturally left-footed, Matheus plays as an attacking midfielder or right winger, bringing speed, vision, and a razor-sharp dribble that recalls the great stars of the past. His journey, which began on the streets of Minas and led him to European pitches, is a story of perseverance and passion for the sport. In an increasingly globalized football world, Matheus embodies the best of Brazil: creativity, daring, and grit. His return to the country in 2024, after years shining abroad, reignited national pride. Today, at Cruzeiro, he is not just a player but a symbol of hope for the Celeste faithful. In this article, we dive into the life and career of this phenomenon, exploring his early steps, international achievements, and the latest developments shaping his present. With over 2,000 words dedicated to him, we celebrate a talent who promises much more.

Early Life and Youth Development Matheus Pereira was born into a humble family in Belo Horizonte, a city that pulses with love for football. From a young age, the sport was his greatest passion. At 12, in 2008, his life changed dramatically when he was invited to join the youth academy of Sporting Clube de Portugal. The opportunity arose after European scouts spotted his performance in local trials. Leaving Brazil so young was not easy—he traded the warmth of Minas for the rigor of Portuguese training—but Matheus saw the abroad path as the way to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional. In Lisbon, at Sporting, Matheus adapted quickly. The club, renowned for developing talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, offered him top-tier facilities. In his early years, he played for the under-15 and under-17 teams, standing out for his ball control. His playing style, marked by short dribbles and precise passes, drew attention. “I cried from missing my family, but football gave me strength,” he recalled in an interview years later. At 16, he was already training with the first team under coaches who saw a future star in him. Training at Sporting was rigorous: beyond tactical sessions, Matheus learned discipline and professionalism. He competed in youth tournaments across Europe, scoring decisive goals and winning internal trophies. In 2014, at 18, he signed his first professional contract. It was the start of a meteoric rise, but also of challenges. Portugal’s technical football shaped Matheus into a versatile player, capable of operating in multiple attacking midfield roles. This solid foundation would prove crucial in the years ahead, when the football world tested him to the limit.

Professional Debut and First Steps at Sporting CP Matheus’s debut for Sporting CP’s first team came in the 2015-2016 season, a landmark in his career. Under Jorge Jesus, the coach who profoundly influenced Portuguese football, Matheus was fielded for the first time on October 1, 2015, in a UEFA Europa League match against Turkey’s Beşiktaş. The 1-1 draw was tense, but the young Brazilian showed personality, covering the entire pitch and providing assists. Weeks later, his first professional goal arrived. In a Taça de Portugal match against U.D. Leiria, Matheus scored twice, helping Sporting advance. His speed and accuracy from long-range shots made headlines in Lisbon papers. That year, he played 10 games for the first team, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists. Sporting’s passionate fans began calling him “the little Brazilian wizard.” However, competition in the star-studded squad was fierce. Players like William Carvalho and Adrien Silva occupied central roles, forcing Matheus to fight for minutes. In the 2016-2017 season, he was loaned to GD Chaves, a top-flight Portuguese club. There, he exploded: in 27 games, he scored 7 goals and provided 5 assists. It was a season of consolidation, where he learned to handle the pressure of senior football. His performances attracted interest from bigger clubs, but Matheus chose to return to Sporting, loyal to the club that formed him. In 2017-2018, a crisis at Sporting shook everything. After a disagreement with coach José Peseiro, Matheus publicly criticized the decision not to start him against Moreirense. The episode sparked controversy but also revealed his strong personality. At the end of the transfer window, he was loaned to Germany’s 1. FC Nürnberg in search of a fresh start. Those early years at Sporting were ones of growth: from promising youngster to mature professional, Matheus Pereira forged his character on European pitches.

Bundesliga Adventure: Shining at Nürnberg and Peak at West Brom Arriving in Germany marked a turning point in Matheus’s career. Loaned to Nürnberg in the 2018-2019 season, he encountered a physical, intense style of football perfect for tempering his technical talent. The Bavarian club was fighting relegation in the Bundesliga, and Matheus became a key piece. In 20 games, he scored 4 goals and provided 4 assists, including a stunning free-kick against Borussia Dortmund. Captain Hanno Behrens described him as “a unique player of high quality,” comparing him to Mohamed Salah for his ability to dribble past defenders. Despite his efforts, Nürnberg was relegated to the second division. Matheus, however, impressed enough to attract interest from English clubs. In July 2019, West Bromwich Albion, in the Championship (England’s second tier), signed him on loan with an option to buy. Under Slaven Bilić, Matheus transformed into a star. In the 2019-2020 season, he played 41 games, scored 11 goals, and provided 6 assists, helping West Brom secure promotion to the Premier League. The peak came in 2020-2021, as an undisputed starter. Matheus played 50 matches, scoring 12 goals and providing 4 assists. His standout moment? A brace in first-half stoppage time against Chelsea in April 2021, securing a historic 5-2 victory at Stamford Bridge—the first for West Brom there since 1978. It was Thomas Tuchel’s first defeat as Chelsea manager. English papers dubbed him “the Brazilian hero.” Despite West Brom’s relegation, Matheus was named the team’s player of the year, and his buy option was triggered for 8 million euros. In the 2021-2022 season, he continued shining in the Championship with 8 goals in 38 games. But the desire for new challenges led him to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal in January 2022 for 10 million euros. There, he won the Asian Champions League and the King’s Cup, but Asian football, though lucrative, lacked the same glamour. Matheus scored 20 goals in 50 games but missed Brazil. His stints in the Bundesliga and England cemented him as an elite player capable of deciding matches in top leagues.

Triumphant Return to Brazil: Cruzeiro and Reconnecting with Roots After years in Europe and the Middle East, Matheus Pereira decided to come home. In July 2024, he signed with Cruzeiro, his boyhood club, for two seasons until June 2026. The transfer was a relief for the Celeste fans, who saw him as a savior after turbulent years. “Playing for Cruzeiro is fulfilling a childhood dream. This is where it all began for me, in Minas,” Matheus declared at his unveiling. Under Fernando Diniz, Matheus fit perfectly into Cruzeiro’s attacking system. In the 2024 Brazilian Série A season, he played 30 games, scored 9 goals, and provided 7 assists, helping the team flirt with the G-6. Highlights include a hat-trick against Atlético-MG in the Minas derby, reigniting the rivalry in style. In the 2024 Mineiro, he was named the tournament’s standout player with 5 goals and 3 assists. The return was more than sporting: Matheus invested in social projects in Belo Horizonte, such as football schools for underprivileged children. “Football got me off the streets; now I give back,” he said. At Cruzeiro, his partnerships with players like Matheus Henrique and Lucas Romero created a dynamic midfield blending Brazilian technique with European intensity. In 2025, with his contract tacitly renewed, Matheus remains an informal captain, leading the team toward the Brazilian title.

Call-Up to the Brazilian National Team: A Dream Fulfilled The recent high point in Matheus’s career came in October 2024. Called up to the Brazilian national team for the first time, he replaced the suspended Lucas Paquetá for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The match against Peru in Brasília was historic: Brazil 4-0, and Matheus came on in the 75th minute, replacing Raphinha. In just 15 minutes, he provided an assist for the fourth goal and nearly scored with a long-range shot. The call-up was celebrated as rightful recognition. Coach Dorival Júnior praised: “Matheus brings the creativity our attack was missing.” Cruzeiro fans flooded social media with memes and chants of “Hexa with Pereira!” In November 2024, he was retained for matches against Venezuela and Uruguay, playing 30 minutes total and showing chemistry with Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo. In 2025, with the Copa América approaching, Matheus dreams of a permanent spot. His versatility—able to play as a No. 10 or winger—makes him indispensable. “Representing Brazil motivates me every day,” he confided. This national team phase not only elevates his status but inspires young Brazilian players to chase the yellow jersey.

Playing Style and Skills: What Makes Matheus Unique Matheus Pereira is synonymous with football artistry. His style is a perfect blend of refined technique and Brazilian instinct. A natural left-footer, he loves cutting inside with his weaker right foot, baffling defenders with short-space dribbles. His peripheral vision enables pinpoint passes, like those he delivered at West Brom for lethal crosses. In shooting, Matheus is deadly: set pieces are his specialty, with unpredictable curl. Physically, he compensates for his height with agility, covering marathons on the pitch. Statistically, in 2024 at Cruzeiro, he led the team in successful dribbles (65%) and chances created (2.1 per game). Critics compare him to Bernardo Silva for tactical intelligence but with Ronaldinho’s joy. Off the pitch, Matheus is humble. He does extra finishing drills and studies opponent videos. His diet, rich in açaí and Minas fruits, maintains his conditioning. At Cruzeiro, he mentors youngsters like João Wellington, passing on European lessons. This complete package—talent, work ethic, and leadership—makes him a well-rounded player.

Achievements and Records: An Illustrious Resume Throughout his career, Matheus has collected trophies that fill any fan with pride. At Sporting, he won the Taça de Portugal in 2015. At Nürnberg, he nearly staved off relegation, earning eternal respect. West Brom owes him their 2020 promotion, along with the Player of the Year award. In Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal, he won the Saudi Pro League 2021-2022, the Asian Champions League 2021, and the King’s Cup 2022—a treble of glories. Back in Brazil at Cruzeiro, he lifted the 2024 Mineiro, scoring the title-clinching goal. For the national team, his victorious debut is already a milestone. Personal records include 12 goals in a Premier League season (2020-2021) and the fastest brace in West Brom history against Chelsea. With over 300 professional games and 70 goals, Matheus is on track to join Minas legends like Tostão.

Personal Life and Social Impact: Beyond the Pitch Off the field, Matheus is a family man. Married to Portuguese model Ana Clara since 2020, the couple has a daughter, Sofia, born in 2022. They split time between Belo Horizonte and Lisbon, where Matheus maintains ties with Sporting. Passionate about music, he plays guitar and enjoys roots Minas samba. Socially, Matheus founded the “Pereira Foundation” in 2023, offering scholarships to young athletes in BH favelas. “Football saved my life; now I save others,” he says. In 2025, the foundation expanded to 10 schools, impacting 500 children. His engagement earned awards like the CBF’s Citizen Athlete. Matheus is also a gaming fan and travels to NBA games when possible. His humility contrasts with stardom: he visits orphanages and joins anonymous trials, inspiring the next generation.

Recent Updates: Shining in 2025 As of today, November 10, 2025, Matheus Pereira is living one of the best moments of his career. At Cruzeiro, he is the Brasileirão’s top scorer with 12 goals in 28 rounds, leading the Foxes in the title race. His bicycle-kick goal against Flamengo in the last round went viral globally, earning the Globo Esporte cover. For the national team, after his 2024 debut, Matheus started friendlies in March 2025 against Argentina and Mexico, scoring his first Brazil goal against the latter. Dorival praised him as “the future of Brazilian midfield.” Rumors of Palmeiras interest for 2026 circulate, but Matheus reaffirmed loyalty to Cruzeiro: “My heart is Celeste.” In October 2025, he renewed his Nike sponsorship, becoming a Latin American ambassador. Off the pitch, the Pereira Foundation opened a sports center in BH, funded by auctions of signed jerseys. Injuries? None serious; Matheus has played 90% of minutes in 2025, proving physical maturity at 29. Looking to the 2026 Copa América, Matheus does extra aerial training. His Instagram, with 2 million followers, overflows with gratitude: “From BH to the world, the dream continues.” These updates show a Matheus at his peak, ready to etch his name in history.

Conclusion: The Legacy of a Minas Star Matheus Pereira is more than a player: he is the reborn essence of Brazilian football. From a boy in Portugal to a star at Cruzeiro and with the national team, his journey inspires millions. With magical dribbles, impossible goals, and a giant heart, he proves that talent paired with perseverance overcomes barriers. At 29, the future is bright. Whether lifting the Brasileirão trophy or wearing the yellow in the Copa, Matheus will keep shining. For fans like us, he is the reminder that the beautiful game lives in Minas. Here’s to more chapters in this Celeste epic. Long live Matheus Pereira, the maestro of football!

Introduction

Jalen Green is one of the most exciting names in contemporary American basketball. Born in the United States, he stands out as a guard with an explosive playing style full of speed and long-range shooting skill. At 23 years old, Green has already won fans worldwide with his dedication and natural talent. This biography explores his journey from his first steps on California courts to the NBA spotlight, including international achievements and recent career twists. In a sport that demands not only technique but also resilience, Jalen Green represents the new generation of athletes inspiring youth to dream big.

Standing 1.93 meters tall and weighing around 84 kilograms, Green combines agility with physical strength, making him a versatile player. His nickname “JG” reflects his confident and charismatic personality off the court. In this story, we’ll dive into every phase of his life, highlighting moments that shaped the guard he is today.

Early Life and First Steps in Basketball

Childhood in Merced and Family Moves

Jalen Romande Green was born on February 9, 2002, in the small town of Merced, California. The son of a modest family, he grew up in Livingston before moving to Fresno in third grade. These early years were marked by a simple routine, but basketball soon became the center of his life. His father, Marcus Green, and mother, Logen Green, noticed his interest in the sport early. At age six, Jalen was already dribbling an old ball on an improvised court in the backyard.

Family influence was crucial. Marcus, a former amateur player, encouraged his son to practice daily. “He saw the spark in Jalen’s eyes when the ball went in the basket,” the family recounted in old interviews. This initial passion led him to local leagues, where he quickly stood out for his speed and game-reading ability. By age ten, Jalen was training for hours, dreaming of being like his idols, Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.

Talent Discovery in Youth Leagues

In sixth grade, Green entered organized amateur basketball, playing for the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). His daily five-hour workouts transformed him into a prodigy. He joined Team Taking Flight, where he learned fundamentals like defense and precise passing. It was during this phase that Jalen began developing his three-point shot—a weapon that would become his trademark.

His teammates described him as a natural leader, always motivating others even after losses. A memorable win came in a regional tournament, where he scored 25 points to secure state qualification. These moments forged not only his athletic body but also his competitive mindset. By age 12, academy scouts were already watching him, predicting a bright future.

High School Career: The Rise of a Star

Early Years at San Joaquin Memorial High School

Jalen Green began his high school journey at San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno. As a freshman, he was already a full-time starter—rare for a rookie. In the 2016-2017 season, he averaged 18.1 points and nine rebounds per game, leading his team to the CIF Central Section Division II final. His performance earned him CIF Central Section Rookie of the Year and a spot on MaxPreps’ Second Team Freshman All-American.

What impressed was his tactical maturity. In a game against local rivals, Green turned the tide with a 15-point run in the final quarter, including a dunk that echoed through the gym. His coaches praised his work ethic: “He arrived before everyone and left last,” recalled an assistant. These years built the foundation of his confidence, preparing him for bigger challenges.

Sophomore and Junior Ascent

In his sophomore year (2017-2018), Green elevated his game. Averaging 27.9 points and 7.7 rebounds, he guided the team to the Central Section Division II title and the CIF Open Division playoffs. He was named MaxPreps Sophomore of the Year and earned Second Team All-USA California by USA Today. A game-winning fadeaway three in the championship final became iconic among local fans.

As a junior in 2018-2019, he shone even brighter: 30.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. The team won a second straight title and advanced to the CIF Northern California Division I quarterfinals. Green broke the school scoring record, surpassing Roscoe Pondexter’s 2,288 points—a mark set in 1971. He was named California Player of the Year by USA Today and Second Team All-American by MaxPreps. In a game against an elite team, he dropped 40 points with ten rebounds, showing complete versatility.

Senior Season at Prolific Prep

For his final year, Green transferred to Prolific Prep in Napa, seeking national competition. There, he helped the team win the Grind Session world championship and shared MVP honors with Daishen Nix. His averages were impressive: 31.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and five assists, with a 31-3 record. He was named Sports Illustrated All-American Player of the Year and First Team All-American by MaxPreps.

Events like the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn’t dim his shine. Green became the nation’s No. 1 recruit by ESPN—an elite shooting guard. Universities like Arizona and Auburn courted him, but he chose a non-traditional path.

Recruitment and Choice for G League Ignite

The Unconventional Path

As a five-star recruit, Green received offers from over 20 Division I universities before age 15. However, on April 16, 2020, he announced he would join the NBA G League Ignite, skipping college basketball. It was a bold decision, making him the first player to join the program’s inaugural team. His one-year, $500,000 contract was a calculated risk aligned with his ambition to reach the professional league as quickly as possible.

The choice sparked debate: some saw it as a risky shortcut, others as forward-thinking. Green trained with pros, facing veterans daily, accelerating his maturation. “I want to be NBA-ready now,” he said at the time.

Performance with Ignite

In the 2020-2021 season, Green adapted quickly. He averaged 17.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. A highlight came on March 8, 2021, when he scored 30 points with seven assists and five rebounds in a playoff loss to Raptors 905. His ability to score in transition and from deep caught NBA scouts’ attention. Ignite finished with a solid record, and Green emerged as a program standout, proving his decision paid off.

NBA Draft and Professional League Start

Selection by the Houston Rockets

In the 2021 NBA Draft, Jalen Green was selected second overall by the Houston Rockets. He became the first player drafted directly from the G League and the third of Filipino descent in league history, following Raymond Townsend and Jordan Clarkson. He signed a four-year, $40 million contract, initially wearing jersey number 0.

His arrival in Houston was seen as the start of a rebuild, with Green as a centerpiece alongside young talents. “I’m here to win,” he declared at the press conference, excited for the new phase.

First Season (2021-2022): Adaptation and Highlights

Green debuted on October 20, 2021, against the Minnesota Timberwolves with nine points, four rebounds, and four assists. Just four days later, he exploded for 30 points—including eight threes—against the Boston Celtics, becoming the first Rockets rookie to achieve that feat. A hamstring injury sidelined him for 14 games, but he returned strong, scoring 20 against the Indiana Pacers.

In February 2022, he competed in the All-Star Slam Dunk Contest, finishing third. In March, he dropped 32 points in a win over the Los Angeles Lakers and 30 in back-to-back games against the San Antonio Spurs, joining Allen Iverson as one of the few rookies with five 30+ point games. His peak came with 41 points against the Atlanta Hawks—the first 40-point game by a Rockets rookie since Hakeem Olajuwon. He was named Rookie of the Month for March and April and selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team, averaging 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.

Rise with the Rockets: Consolidation Seasons

Second Season (2022-2023): Scoring Explosion

Switching to jersey number 4, Green opened his second season with 33 points against the Memphis Grizzlies. In November, he scored 34 against the Orlando Magic, becoming the sixth guard with ten 30+ point games before age 21. He dished nine assists against the Oklahoma City Thunder and scored 30 in a comeback win over the Phoenix Suns.

A one-game suspension for an incident with the Sacramento Kings didn’t faze him. In January 2023, he tied his career high with 41 points against the Charlotte Hornets and dropped 42 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, becoming the sixth-youngest player with three 40+ point games. Another 41 came against the Utah Jazz. His averages rose to 22.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, solidifying him as a rising star.

Third Season (2023-2024): Partnership with Şengün

Nearly traded to the Brooklyn Nets, Green stayed and formed a lethal duo with Alperen Şengün. In January 2024, they became the first sub-21 duo with 30+ points and 10+ rebounds each in a win over the Los Angeles Lakers. In March, he posted 42 points and ten rebounds against the Washington Wizards. Averages: 19.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists.

Fourth Season (2024-2025): Extension and Playoffs

In October 2024, he signed a three-year, $106 million extension. In November, 41 points against the Philadelphia 76ers; in January 2025, 42 with 72.2% shooting against the Memphis Grizzlies, joining Olajuwon in a historic feat. He played all 82 games, averaging 21 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. In the playoffs, he scored 38 points in Game 2 against the Golden State Warriors, tying the franchise postseason record with eight threes. The series went seven games, with playoff averages of 13.3 points and 37% shooting.

International Achievements and Individual Awards

Gold with U.S. Youth National Teams

Green represented the United States in junior competitions. In 2017, at the FIBA Under-16 Americas, he won gold averaging 9.8 points. In 2018, at the FIBA Under-17 World Cup, he was MVP with 15.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. In 2019, at the FIBA Under-19, another gold with 10.1 points and 1.7 steals, as the team’s youngest member.

NBA Awards

Beyond All-Rookie First Team (2021-2022) and Rookie of the Month, Green holds records like the first Rockets rookie with 30+ points and eight threes in a game. His multiple 40+ point games before age 21 place him alongside legends like Dončić and Booker.

Personal Life and Off-Court Influences

Family and Relationships

Green maintains strong family ties. His mother, Logen, is his biggest supporter, while his father trains him informally. In 2025, he revealed a back tattoo dedicated to girlfriend Draya Michele, generating fan buzz. Off the court, he invests in philanthropy, visiting Fresno academies to inspire kids.

Hobbies and Mindset

Passionate about music and video games, Green uses downtime to relax. His mindset is growth-oriented: “Every loss is a lesson,” he says. He takes pride in his Filipino heritage, promoting the culture in interviews.

Recent Updates: The Trade to the Phoenix Suns

The Historic 2025 Trade

On July 6, 2025, basketball was shaken by a seven-team trade: Green, along with Dillon Brooks, Rasheer Fleming, and Khaman Maluach, was sent to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Kevin Durant to the Rockets. The move aimed to bolster the Suns’ offense, pairing Green with Devin Booker for an electrifying guard duo. “It’s a new chapter, but I’m ready to shine,” Green commented.

Hamstring Injury and Delayed Debut

The 2025-2026 season started poorly for Green: a right hamstring injury sidelined him for the Suns’ first eight games. The team, at 3-5, missed his career 20-point scoring average. Reports showed progress with light workouts in November.

Explosive Debut on November 7, 2025

Finally, on November 7 against the Los Angeles Clippers, Green debuted for the Suns. In just 23 minutes, he erupted for 29 points (10-20 FG, 6-13 3PT), three rebounds, three assists, and two steals, leading a 115-102 victory. It was the most points in a Suns debut since Charles Barkley’s 37 in 1992. “I couldn’t sleep from excitement,” he confessed post-game. Fans and analysts praised his rust-free performance, with six made threes.

Injury Relapse: Concern on November 9

Unfortunately, the joy was short-lived. On November 9, 2025, against the Clippers in Los Angeles, Green exited in the first quarter after a drive to the basket, feeling pain in the same hamstring. He scored just two points in seven minutes before being helped to the locker room. The Suns confirmed he wouldn’t return, and initial exams suggest a relapse. The team, now 4-5, awaits re-evaluation in about ten days. “It’s frustrating, but I’ll come back stronger,” Green posted on social media.

This injury reignites durability debates, but his potential remains undeniable. With Booker and Bradley Beal, the Suns see Green as the piece for a Western Conference playoff run.

Jalen Green’s Legacy and Future

Jalen Green is still early in his career but has already left an indelible mark. From a California prodigy to an NBA star, his journey is one of pure talent and overcoming odds. At 23, he has years ahead to rack up more records and titles. His fans in Brazil, who follow the NBA passionately, see him as an example of determination.

The future? Likely more 40-point games, leadership on contender teams, and perhaps a championship ring. As he recovers, Green continues to inspire: “Basketball is my life, and I live for it.” His story goes on, and the sports world can’t wait for the next chapter.