Willian Souza Arão da Silva, known simply as Willian Arão, is one of the most respected names in contemporary Brazilian football. Born on March 12, 1992, in São Paulo, this gritty Paulista has built a career defined by determination, versatility, and an uncanny ability to adapt to different environments. At 33 years old in October 2025, Arão remains active with Santos, marking his return to Brazilian football’s roots after iconic stints at giants like Flamengo, Botafogo, and Corinthians, as well as ventures in Europe. His journey is not just about trophies—though he has plenty—but about overcoming challenges, leading teams, and an unwavering love for the game that shines through every touch of the ball. This article dives into the life and career of a player whose sharp game vision and precise tackles continue to inspire fans and young athletes alike.
Early Days in Football
Willian Arão’s story begins on the streets and pickup fields of São Paulo, where football is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. Born to a humble family, Arão discovered his passion for the ball as a child, playing with friends in neighborhood pitches. At 12, he joined the youth ranks of Grêmio Barueri, a club known for nurturing promising talents. Under the scorching sun of training sessions, Arão honed the fundamentals: tough tackling, short passes, and a defensive stance that would become his trademark.
In 2008, at just 16, a golden opportunity arose: a transfer to São Paulo FC, one of Brazil’s biggest clubs. At the Tricolor, Arão joined the under-17 squad and quickly stood out. In 2010, he was a key figure in winning the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, a dream tournament for any youth player. Alongside future global stars like Casemiro and Lucas Moura, Arão lifted the trophy at Pacaembu, scoring in the final against Santos. That victory wasn’t just a title—it fueled his ambition. “I looked at those guys and thought, why not me?” Arão recalled in an interview years later. Coaches praised his tactical intelligence, rare for his age. At São Paulo, he played over 20 youth matches, always wearing the number 5 shirt, symbolizing his role as a defensive midfielder.
But football isn’t all early glory. Arão faced minor injuries and fierce competition, forcing him to mature quickly. He trained extra, studied match footage, and soaked up advice from veterans. This dedication prepared him for the next chapter, a stepping stone to Europe.
Early European Experience
In 2010, at just 18, Willian Arão experienced a life-changing moment: a move to Espanyol in Spain. Recommended by agent Mino Raiola, one of football’s most influential figures, Arão signed with the Catalan club. Moving to Barcelona was a cultural shock—leaving his family and São Paulo’s warmth for a Spanish-speaking world where football was an elite profession. Under Mauricio Pochettino, a coach who later thrived in the Premier League, Arão trained with the first team but bureaucratic issues, common for young foreigners, prevented an official debut.
Though he didn’t play competitive matches, the Espanyol stint was formative. Arão learned to read the European game, emphasizing possession and quick transitions. “There, I saw what true professionalism meant. Pochettino taught me to think three plays ahead,” he told O Globo. After six months, he returned to Brazil, but the tactical growth he gained set him apart. This early European experience planted the seed for future international moves and showed Arão that football extended beyond Brazil’s borders.
Back in Brazil, Arão signed with Corinthians in 2012, ready to prove himself at a heavyweight club.
Arrival at Corinthians and Early Titles
Corinthians was where Willian Arão took his first professional steps. Signed for around R$1 million, he arrived as a São Paulo youth prospect but faced a star-studded squad. As an immediate backup to Ralf, the “Pitbull” of Corinthians’ midfield, Arão learned the ropes of continental competitions. His debut came in the 2012 Copa do Brasil, entering in the second half against Emelec in the Libertadores.
The year 2012 was magical for Corinthians—and Arão. He was part of the squad that won the club’s first Libertadores title. Though he played only three matches in the campaign, he was a constant presence on the bench, absorbing Tite’s energy and learning from stars like Cássio and Emerson Sheik. In the final against Boca Juniors at a packed Pacaembu, Arão celebrated the 2-0 victory like a fan. Months later, the Club World Cup in Japan followed, with a win over Chelsea. Arão played the final minutes of the semifinal against Al-Ahly, feeling the weight of representing Brazil globally.
In 2013, the Paulista title came with more minutes: 10 matches, including the final against Guarani. The Recopa Sudamericana, defeating São Paulo, capped a golden year. In total, Arão played 18 games for Corinthians, scoring no goals but gaining invaluable lessons in leadership and pressure. He was the “kid on the bench,” but his potential to start was clear. His 2013 loan moves were a club decision to give him experience, but he always credited Corinthians for shaping him.
Loan Periods: Learning and Growth
Brazilian football is unforgiving to youngsters: you either play or fade away. For Arão, the 2013 and 2014 loans were a life school. First, Portuguesa in Série A, arriving amid a relegation battle. He played 12 matches, helping secure a miraculous survival, though the team was later relegated due to a penalty. “That’s where I learned to handle losses,” he said.
In 2014, he joined Chapecoense in Série B. At the Verdão do Oeste, he scored his first professional goal against América-MG in a 2-1 win. With 15 matches, he felt useful in a team dreaming of the top tier. Chapecoense earned promotion the following year, and Arão takes pride in contributing to that foundation. “Chape is family. I grew as a man there,” he shared on a recent podcast.
The third loan was to Atlético Goianiense, also in Série B, in 2014. For the Dragão, Arão played 10 matches, aiding their fight against relegation. These periods were crucial: he amassed 37 games, one goal, and experience at mid-tier clubs, learning the nuances of different football environments. Returning to Corinthians more mature, the club opted to sell him permanently.
Breakout at Botafogo
In January 2015, Willian Arão signed with Botafogo for R$2.5 million—a turning point. At the Alvinegro, he became an undisputed starter, playing 59 matches and scoring seven goals in Série B. His game vision, surgical tackles, and midfield leadership were key to the second-division title and promotion. Arão was the engine of Ricardo Gomes’ team, with passes that fed the attack and tackles that neutralized opponents.
A standout moment: a header in a 3-0 win over Sampaio Corrêa, sealing promotion. But it wasn’t all smooth. A legal dispute over contract renewal, settled in 2017 in Arão’s favor by Brazil’s labor court, marked his exit. He left as a fan favorite, with Botafogo supporters missing him. “Botafogo gave me wings,” he sums up. Those two years transformed him into a complete midfielder, ready for a big leap.
Peak Career: Flamengo
December 2015: Flamengo signed Arão for R$7 million, launching a golden era. From 2016 to 2022, he played 377 matches, scored 35 goals, and captained the team in key moments. Under Zé Ricardo, he established himself as a box-to-box midfielder, but it was with Jorge Jesus in 2019 that he soared. Jesus praised his intelligence: “Arão is a brain on the pitch.” In the 2019 Libertadores, he made the tournament’s best XI, with tackles that dismantled rival attacks.
His accolades? Four Carioca titles (2017, 2019, 2020, 2021), two Brasileirões (2019, 2020), two Libertadores (2019, 2022), a Copa do Brasil (2022), two Supercopas, and a Recopa. In 2019, he won the Placar Bola de Prata. Improvised as a center-back by Rogério Ceni in 2020, Arão showed versatility with crucial clearances. Memorable moments include his goal in the 2022 Libertadores final against Athletico-PR and an assist for Bruno Henrique in the 2019 Brasileirão.
Arão was more than a player—he was a leader. Wearing the captain’s armband, he motivated teammates and connected the team with fans. His 2022 departure to Europe was emotional, with a packed Maracanã bidding farewell to an idol.
International Adventure: Fenerbahçe
In July 2022, Arão joined Fenerbahçe in Turkey for €3 million. At 30, he tested European waters again. In Istanbul, under José Mourinho (who arrived later), he played 45 matches, scored one goal, and won the Turkish Cup in 2023. A starter in 78% of Süper Lig games, Arão adapted to Turkey’s physical football and passionate crowds.
The experience was enriching but challenging. Language barriers and homesickness weighed on him, yet he values it: “Fenerbahçe taught me patience.” After a year, in August 2023, he moved to Panathinaikos in Greece for €3 million.
Challenges and Triumphs at Panathinaikos
At Panathinaikos, Arão joined a historic club with fervent Athens fans. He played 84 matches, scored four goals, and won the Greek Cup in 2023-24. As a midfielder, he was a defensive pillar, averaging 2.5 tackles per game. Under Diego Alonso and others, he led the midfield, aiding a runner-up finish in the 2024 Greek Super League.
It was a rollercoaster: minor injuries but also standout performances, like a win over Olympiacos in the cup. Arão learned basic Greek and embraced the culture. In May 2025, he left amicably, ready to return to Brazil. “Greece was a school of resilience,” he said.
Return to Brazil: A New Chapter at Santos
July 2025: Santos signed Arão until December 2026, with an option to extend. At 33, he returned to Série A to help the Peixe avoid relegation. Presented at CT Rei Pelé, he was welcomed as a hero, given his São Paulo roots.
Debut and Early Challenges
His debut came on July 16 against Flamengo—an ironic twist. Entering in the second half, Arão helped secure a 1-0 win with tight marking on Arrascaeta. “It felt like a new home, but familiar,” he said post-match. However, a calf injury sidelined him soon after. He played just one match as a substitute, with no goals or assists.
2025 Updates
In October 2025, Arão is back training with the squad after two months of recovery. Recent reports suggest a return soon, possibly against Grêmio in October. Coach Fábio Carille praises his fitness: “He brings the experience we need.” Despite early “discomfort” sparking fan criticism, Arão trains hard, focused on contributing. Santos, optimistic, plans another midfielder for 2026 but sees him as a pillar. His 2025 stats: one appearance, no goals, but undeniable leadership. Injuries aside, Arão remains a model of professionalism.
Brazil National Team
Arão’s time with Brazil was brief but meaningful. Called up by Tite in 2017 for a friendly against Colombia, he debuted with 20 minutes, no goals. It was his only appearance, but he dreams of more. “The national team is the pinnacle,” he says.
Personal Life and Influences
Off the pitch, Arão is a devoted father, married, and evangelical. Guided by family and faith, he avoids controversy and supports social projects in São Paulo. He learned Spanish in his youth and prioritizes his children’s education. His idols? Ralf and Dunga, for their grit.
Legacy and Future
Willian Arão’s legacy spans over 600 matches, 50 goals, and numerous titles. At Santos in 2025, he seeks more glory. At 33, his future is bright: perhaps retirement in 2028, followed by coaching. A warrior who, like football, never stops evolving.
