David Luiz: A Comprehensive Overview

Early Life and Youth Career

David Luiz Moreira Marinho was born on April 22, 1987, in Diadema, Brazil. He began his football career with São Paulo FC's youth team before moving to Vitória, where he played from 2001 to 2005.

Professional Club Career

Vitória

David Luiz started his professional career with Vitória in 2006, making 52 appearances and scoring 2 goals. Initially a defensive midfielder, he was converted to a central defender, a move that significantly improved his performance.

Benfica

In January 2007, David Luiz joined Portuguese club Benfica on loan and made the move permanent later that year. Over four seasons, he made 82 appearances and scored 4 goals, becoming a key player and helping the team win the Primeira Liga in 2009-10.

Chelsea (First Spell)

In January 2011, David Luiz signed with Chelsea for a €25 million transfer fee. He quickly became a fan favorite, known for his dynamic playing style and versatility. He helped Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League in 2011-12 and the Europa League in 2012-13.

Paris Saint-Germain

In June 2014, David Luiz transferred to Paris Saint-Germain for a then-record fee of £50 million for a defender. During his time in France, he won multiple domestic titles, including two Ligue 1 championships and several cup victories.

Return to Chelsea

David Luiz returned to Chelsea in August 2016 for £34 million. He played a crucial role in Chelsea's Premier League title win in 2016-17 and another Europa League victory in 2018-19.

Arsenal

In August 2019, David Luiz moved to Arsenal for £8 million. He contributed to Arsenal's FA Cup win in 2019-20 and the Community Shield victory in 2020.

Flamengo

In September 2021, David Luiz returned to Brazil, joining Flamengo. He won the Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil in 2022, among other honors.

International Career

David Luiz made his international debut for Brazil in 2010. He earned over 50 caps and played in major tournaments, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he captained Brazil in their infamous 7-1 semi-final loss to Germany. He also won the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup with Brazil.

Style of Play

David Luiz is known for his versatility, playing primarily as a centre back but also as a defensive midfielder or full back. He is praised for his physical strength, technique, and ability to distribute the ball. Despite criticism for defensive lapses, he has been recognized as one of the top defenders in the world, particularly during his second spell at Chelsea.

Personal Life

David Luiz is a devout Evangelical Christian and holds Portuguese citizenship. Known for his distinctive curly hair, he has been a popular figure both on and off the field. He co-owns an Italian restaurant in London with former teammate Willian.

Career Statistics and Honours

Club Appearances and Goals

• Vitória: 52 appearances, 2 goals
• Benfica: 82 appearances, 4 goals
• Chelsea (First Spell): 81 appearances, 6 goals
• Paris Saint-Germain: 56 appearances, 3 goals
• Chelsea (Second Spell): 79 appearances, 5 goals
• Arsenal: 53 appearances, 3 goals
• Flamengo: 74 appearances, 2 goals

International

• Brazil: 57 caps, 3 goals

Major Honours

• Benfica: Primeira Liga, Taça da Liga
• Chelsea: Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League
• Paris Saint-Germain: Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophée des Champions
• Arsenal: FA Cup, Community Shield
• Flamengo: Copa Libertadores, Copa do Brasil, Campeonato Carioca
• Brazil: FIFA Confederations Cup

David Luiz has also received numerous individual accolades, including being named in the FIFA FIFPro World XI and the PFA Team of the Year.