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Aleshandre PatoFootballer, Brazilian newcomer of Milan
Country:
 Brazil |
Content:
- Early Life and Youth Career
- Youth Soccer
- Club Career
- International Success
- AC Milan
- Italian Success
- Return to Brazil
- Loan to São Paulo and Transfer Rumors
- Tianjin Quanjian
- Villarreal
- Tianjin Quanjian (Second Stint)
- São Paulo (Second Stint)
- Orlando City
- International Career
- Personal Life
Early Life and Youth Career
Birth and ChildhoodAlexandre Rodrigues da Silva, known as Alexandre Pato, was born on September 2, 1989, in Pato Branco, Brazil. Growing up in a small town with no significant soccer teams, he turned to futsal. His nickname "Pato" ("duck") originated from his hometown's name, which translates to "white duck."
Youth Soccer
Pato joined the youth academy of SC Internacional in 2002. In 2006, he helped the club win the Brazilian U-20 Championship. As Internacional faced a shortage of strikers after the departure of key players, Pato and Luis Adriano were promoted to the first team.
Club Career
InternacionalDebut and Breakthrough
Pato made his Campeonato Brasileiro debut in November 2006. He scored his first goal and assisted three more in a 4-1 victory over Palmeiras. He played a crucial role in Internacional's Club World Cup triumph in December 2006, scoring in the semi-final against Al-Ahly.
International Success
In early 2007, Pato won the South American Youth Championship with Brazil, becoming the tournament's top scorer. The victory secured Brazil's participation in the FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2008 Olympics.
AC Milan
Transfer Saga and ArrivalIn August 2007, AC Milan announced the acquisition of Pato for €22 million. Due to age restrictions, he could not make his debut until January 2008.
Italian Success
Pato scored on his Milan debut in January 2008. He tallied 15 goals in 36 Serie A appearances in the 2008/09 season. Despite injuries in the following season, he managed 12 goals in 23 Serie A matches, including a brace against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.
Pato contributed to Milan's Serie A title victory in 2011. He scored several memorable goals during his time at the club.
Return to Brazil
CorinthiansIn January 2013, Pato returned to Brazil to join Corinthians. He scored on his debut in a state championship match.
Loan to São Paulo and Transfer Rumors
In February 2014, Pato was loaned to São Paulo. In 2015, speculation about a potential return to Europe intensified, with interest reported from Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund, and Chelsea.
Tianjin Quanjian
In January 2016, Corinthians agreed to sell Pato to Chinese Super League club Tianjin Quanjian. However, Pato declined the move, prioritizing his career over financial gain.
Villarreal
In July 2016, Pato signed a four-year contract with Spanish club Villarreal.
Tianjin Quanjian (Second Stint)
In January 2017, Pato joined Tianjin Quanjian for €18 million. He left the club in March 2019.
São Paulo (Second Stint)
Pato re-joined São Paulo in March 2019. His contract was terminated by mutual consent in August 2020.
Orlando City
In February 2021, Pato signed with MLS club Orlando City as a free agent. He made his debut in April 2021.
International Career
Pato made his senior debut for Brazil in March 2008, scoring the match's only goal against Sweden. He represented Brazil at the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2008 Olympics.
Personal Life
Pato was married to Brazilian actress Sthefany Brito from 2009 to 2010. He has also been involved in other high-profile relationships.
