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Mario FernandesRussian and Brazilian footballer, defender
Date of Birth: 19.09.1990
Country:  Brazil |
Content:
- Mario Fernandes
- Health Issues and Debut at Grêmio
- Transfer to CSKA Moscow
- Career at CSKA Moscow
- Return to Form and Goalscoring
- International Career
- Naturalization and Russia Debut
Mario Fernandes
Background and Early CareerBorn in Brazil to a father who worked as a futsal coach, Mario Fernandes displayed exceptional speed and dribbling skills from a young age. Despite playing as a central defender in youth teams, he caught the attention of several Brazilian and international clubs. In March 2009, he joined Grêmio for a transfer fee of £400,500 (US$1 million).
Health Issues and Debut at Grêmio
Following his transfer, Fernandes disappeared for three days, citing depression caused by being away from his family for the first time. After a 30-day clinical examination and rehabilitation, his mother relocated to Porto Alegre to be with him. He made his debut for Grêmio on June 28, 2009, against Sport Recife.
Despite his initial position as a central defender, Fernandes was moved to the wing at Grêmio. He made 19 appearances in the 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.
Transfer to CSKA Moscow
After his impressive debut season, Fernandes attracted interest from European clubs, including Inter Milan, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Manchester City. In 2012, CSKA Moscow offered €15 million for his transfer, but Grêmio declined. Negotiations resumed in April, and CSKA agreed to pay €6 million initially, with an additional €8 million to Grêmio and €1 million to his former club, São Caetano, in August. Fernandes signed a five-year contract with CSKA on May 4, 2012.
Career at CSKA Moscow
Early Years and InjuriesFernandes made his CSKA debut in the 2012/13 season opener against Rostov. Despite playing in 28 league matches, he faced several injuries, including a facial injury, an ankle injury, a concussion, and a serious knee injury that prevented him from celebrating CSKA's championship win.
Return to Form and Goalscoring
Fernandes recovered from his injuries and returned to action in the 2013/14 season. He scored his first CSKA goal in the Russian Cup against Sokol Saratov. In 2016, he signed a new contract with CSKA that extended his stay until 2022.
International Career
Brazil and Missed OpportunityFernandes was called up to the Brazil national team in 2011 but failed to make an appearance in the Roca Cup match against Argentina. After missing a flight due to a late night out, he was not invited back to the national team.
Naturalization and Russia Debut
In 2014, Fernandes expressed interest in obtaining Russian citizenship and playing for the Russian national team. President Vladimir Putin granted him citizenship in 2016. He made his Russia debut in 2017 against South Korea and was included in the extended squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
