Danilo Barbosa unveiled by Grêmio and recalls living at the Olímpico | OneFootball

Danilo Barbosa was unveiled as a Grêmio signing at CT Luiz Carvalho on Thursday, returning at 30 to the club where he came through the academy. He said competitiveness in Brazil and a reunion with Luís Castro, rather than finances, shaped his decision.

According to Globo.com, he was handed the number 15 shirt by executive Paulo Pelaipe, becoming the sixth mid-season addition. He has signed until the end of 2028 after joining from Al Ula in the Saudi second division.

Barbosa spent 2008 to 2009 in Grêmio’s youth system, even living beneath the stands at the old Olímpico. He spoke fondly of the avalanche celebrations and of returning now as a more seasoned professional.

He played for Castro at Botafogo between 2022 and 2023. Declining direct comparisons, he highlighted ambition, hard work and unity, noting Castro is the same demanding figure he knew.

Registered in the CBF’s BID on Wednesday, he could feature on Sunday against Bragantino in the Brasileirão. He has trained with the first team and will be available for the Copa do Brasil quarter-final against Inter.

His clubs include Nice, Braga, Benfica, Standard Liège and Valencia. He left Botafogo in 2024 with the Brasileirão and the Libertadores, and also featured in Palmeiras’ Libertadores win. At Al Ula from August 2025, he made 35 appearances, scoring five with two assists, his last a 2-1 loss to Al Diriyah on 23 June.

Source: Globo.com

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