1. Early Career and European Success
2. Return to Brazil and Later Years
3. Transition to Scouting
4. International Career
5. Achievements

Early Career and European Success

Zé Elias began his professional football career at the young age of 17 with Corinthians, immediately attracting the attention of European clubs. In 1996, he made the move to Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. His European journey continued with stints at Inter Milan, Bologna, and Genoa in Italy, as well as a highly successful three-year spell at Olympiacos in Greece, where he helped the club secure three consecutive league championships.

Return to Brazil and Later Years

In 2004, Elias returned to his native Brazil to play for Santos. However, his two-year contract with Ukrainian club Metalurh Donetsk in 2006 proved to be short-lived as he failed to make any appearances. Elias subsequently played for Guarani and Omonia before ending his playing career with Londrina in March 2008.

Transition to Scouting

Following his retirement, Elias took on a role as a scout for Inter Milan in Brazil. However, in June 2008, he signed a contract with Austrian Bundesliga club Altach.

International Career

Elias represented Brazil at the international level, notably winning a bronze medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Achievements

- Liga Paulista: 1995
- Copa do Brasil: 1995
- UEFA Cup: 1997/98
- Superleague Greece: 2000/01, 2001/02, 2002/03
- Campeonato Brasileiro Série A: 2004
- Summer Olympics: Bronze medal, 1996

Football