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Soares de Morais WellitonBrazilian footballer, forward for Spartak club
Date of Birth: 22.10.1986
Country:  Brazil |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Goiás Breakthrough
- Transfer to Spartak Moscow
- Spartak Success
- International Career
- Personal Life
- Later Years
Early Life and Career
Welliton started his professional career in 2005 with Bandeirante. He quickly impressed, scoring 7 goals in the São Paulo Youth Cup, becoming its top scorer. In 2006, he joined Goiás, where he spent two seasons as a key player, scoring over 20 goals in all competitions.
Goiás Breakthrough
In his first season with Goiás, Welliton emerged as a prolific scorer. He netted 10 goals in the Brasileirão, helping the team finish 8th. He also scored in the Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Goiano, where Goiás was crowned champions.
His impressive form continued in the second season. He became Goiás' leading forward, scoring goals in the Brasileirão, Copa do Brasil, and Campeonato Goiano. In his final game for Goiás, he scored the winning goal against Santos, leaving as the club's top scorer.
Transfer to Spartak Moscow
In 2007, Welliton's exceptional performances attracted interest from European clubs. Spartak Moscow offered a 5-year contract worth 6 million euros plus bonuses, which Goiás accepted. Welliton signed on July 31, 2007, citing Spartak's participation in the Champions League as a major factor in his decision.
Spartak Success
Welliton quickly established himself as a key player for Spartak. He became the league's top scorer in both 2009 and 2010, scoring a total of 57 goals in 104 matches. His pace, finishing ability, and aerial prowess made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Welliton also played a crucial role in Spartak's Russian Cup victory in 2008.
International Career
Despite his success at club level, Welliton never represented the Brazilian national team. Spartak attempted to obtain a Russian passport for him, but the initiative was met with resistance from Russian footballers and fans.
Personal Life
Welliton married at age 16 to Monica, whom he met at a friend's birthday party in 2002. They had a son named Kayu in 2007. After his wife's departure for Brazil in 2009, Welliton had a relationship with Russian model Viktoria Bonya, whom he proposed to on their first date.
Later Years
After leaving Spartak in 2012, Welliton had brief stints with several other clubs, including Grêmio, São Paulo, and Al-Wasl. He retired from professional football in 2016.
