Alex de Souza
Fenerbahçe's legendary Brazilian captain and highest-scoring foreign player in Süper Lig history.
Alexsandro de Souza (born 14 September 1977), commonly known as Alex de Souza or just Alex, is a Brazilian football manager, pundit and former attacking midfielder. He is the current head coach of Athletic-MG. Alex is best known for his time at Fenerbahçe, where he was a long-time captain and became the highest-scoring foreign player of all time in the Süper Lig. Throughout his career, he also played for Coritiba, Palmeiras, Flamengo and Cruzeiro in Brazil, as well as Parma in the Italian Serie A. Internationally, Alex earned 48 caps and scored 12 goals for Brazil from 1998 to 2005. He was part of their squads at three Copa América tournaments, winning in 1999 and 2004, the latter as captain. He additionally went to the 2000 Olympics and two FIFA Confederations Cups, but never was chosen for the FIFA World Cup.
- Nationality
- Brazilian
- Position
- Attacking Midfielder
- Club Period
- 2004–2012
- Key Attribute
- Playmaking and Goal Scoring
- Legacy Status
- Highest-scoring foreign player in Süper Lig history
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Alex was sold by Cruzeiro in 2004 for €5 million to Fenerbahçe. He became Fenerbahçe captain after Ümit Özat's transfer to 1. FC Köln and vice-captains Tuncay's transfer to Middlesbrough and Rüştü Reçber's transfer to Beşiktaş. Alex scored his 100th goal in the Süper Lig for Fenerbahçe on 13 November 2010 against Gaziantepspor when they lost 2–1. At 33 years of age Alex scored a hat-trick against Bucaspor in the first 35 minutes of the game; Fenerbahçe won 5–2. His first goal in that game was Fenerbahçe's 3000th goal in the Süper Lig, so his kit and shoes from that match are now in the club's museum. On 9 February 2011, he signed another two-year contract. On 15 May 2011, he scored five goals, including three penalties and a free-kick, in a 6–0 win against Ankaragücü. After Fenerbahçe's 2010–11 league title, Alex won the golden boot with 28 goals. He made his 900th career appearance on 12 September 2011 in a 1–0 victory against Orduspor. In the 2012 Turkish Cup final on 16 May 2012 against Bursaspor, Alex netted Fenerbahçe's fourth and final goal of a 4–0 victory and was named Man of the Match. On 15 September 2012, a fan-funded statue of Alex was unveiled in Kadıköy Yoğurtçu park. Alex's last goal for Fenerbahçe came on 20 September in the Europa League, scoring the second goal in a 2–2 draw with Marseille. His last appearance for the club came on 29 September, playing the first half of a 2–0 defeat to Kasımpaşa. After a rift with coach Aykut Kocaman, his contract was terminated on 1 October. With Fenerbahçe he concluded his career in Turkey with 136 assists and 171 goals in 341 games. He left just five goals shy of matching the club record for league goals with 136 goals, held by Aykut Kocaman.
In Their Own Story
On 15 May 2011, Fenerbahçe faced Ankaragücü in a Süper Lig match. Alex de Souza delivered a performance for the ages, scoring five goals — including three penalties and a free-kick — in a 6–0 victory. The Brazilian captain's relentless attacking display showcased his lethal finishing and set-piece mastery, cementing his status as one of the most prolific foreign players in Turkish football history. That season, he won the golden boot with 28 goals, nine ahead of the second-highest scorer.
Reader's Guide
Alex usually played as an attacking midfielder, known for his passing, technical skills, control, low centre of gravity, vision, reading of the game, and ability to provide assists and score, especially from set pieces. He was also deployed as a second striker or on the left flank.
Did You Know?
- Alex scored Fenerbahçe's 3000th goal in the Süper Lig.
- He scored five goals in a single Süper Lig match against Ankaragücü in 2011.
- A fan-funded statue of Alex was unveiled in Kadıköy Yoğurtçu park in 2012.
- Alex was captain of Brazil when they won the 2004 Copa América.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alex de Souza in the context of Fenerbahçe history?
He was a Brazilian attacking talent who joined Fenerbahçe in the early 2000s and captivated supporters with his unique style. His tenure defined him as one of the most electrifying foreign players to wear the yellow and navy blue jersey.
What position did Alex de Souza play for the club?
He primarily operated as an attacking midfielder or winger during his three seasons with the team. In this role, he utilized his physical strength to dominate duels while maintaining high technical standards on the pitch.
What were Alex de Souza's key attributes on the field?
His game was defined by explosive dribbling and an unyielding competitive spirit that captivated the stadium crowd. This unique blend of power and flair brought a sense of joy and unpredictability to Fenerbahçe’s attack.
When did Alex de Souza play for Fenerbahçe?
His tenure at the club lasted from 2001 until 2004, covering a transitional era in the team's history. Although his stay was relatively short, he left an indelible mark on the fans during those years.
Why is Alex de Souza considered a fan favorite icon?
Supporters revere him for bringing fire and unforgettable moments to the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium throughout his career there. He remains remembered not just for goals, but for the sheer excitement he injected into every match.
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