Geovanni Deiberson Maurício

Early career

When Geovanni emerged from the youth set-up at Cruzeiro most Brazilian critics were intrigued by his talents and believed he could become a great player at the highest level. When Geovanni was 18 he enjoyed a successful loan spell at America, scoring one goal in 15 games at the right wing position. He instantly commanded a first team place at the Brazilian team. Once his loan spell had finished he immediately found his way into the first team of Cruzeiro and was a fan favourite at the Belo Horizonte club.

Barcelona

Geovanni was purchased by Barcelona for $18 million in summer 2001, signing a four-year deal, despite reported interest from Juventus. Geovanni scored his first goal for Barcelona against Real Zaragoza. Geovanni made 21 La Liga appearances scoring 1 goal, mostly as a substitute. In his second season, he fell out with coach Carles Rexach and was not featured in Barcelona's starting 11 for the majority of the season and only played 5 league matches. Geovanni was then loaned out to Portuguese club Benfica the following season.

Benfica

In 2003 Geovanni agreed on terms with Benfica and was signed on a free transfer, agreeing to a four-year deal, after an impressive spell with Benfica on loan from Barcelona. He scored his first goal for Benfica against Braga scoring a free kick. He was a mainstay in the Benfica starting line-up and was hugely involved in winning 3 trophies for Benfica, the Portuguese Cup, Portuguese League and…

Geovanni's first and only international appearance for Brazil's was in a 1–0 defeat to Mexico in the 2001 Copa América. Geovanni has also represented Brazil in the 2000 Olympic football tournament.

Club

Cruzeiro

Copa do Brasil: 2000 Recopa Sudamericana: 1998 Benfica

Primeira Liga: 2004–05 Taça de Portugal: 2003–04 Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira: 2005 Brazil U17

South American Under-17 Football Championship: 1997 FIFA U-17 World Championship: 1997 Brazil U23

CONMEBOL Men Pre-Olympic Tournament: 1999