Kerlon Moura Souza

Kerlon was the top scorer and named Best Player at the 2005 South American Under 17 Football Championship, scoring eight goals in seven matches and helping Brazil win the tournament.

Early years in Brazil

Kerlon made his professional debut for Cruzeiro in May 2005 for a Copa do Brasil match against Baraúnas. Kerlon scored his first professional goal on 25 February 2007 in Cruzeiro's 4–1 victory over Ituiutaba in the Campeonato Mineiro. While at Cruzeiro, Kerlon became well known for his trademark skill, named the "drible da foquinha" or seal dribble, where the ball is bounced continuously on the forehead while running. Opposing players often foul the performer of a seal dribble, such as in September 2007, where Atletico Mineiro player Dyego Coelho struck Kerlon with his elbow and was suspended for five matches.

European football

Kerlon was signed by Chievo in 2008. Like the deal that Inter bought Júlio César and Victor Obinna, Inter borrowed the non-EU registration quota from Chievo instead of using its own quota. Lega Calcio documented Chievo signed Kerlon but he would leave for Inter at a later time. Cruzeiro also announced that the club and third-party owner EMS Sigma Pharma sold 80% rights to Kerlon's agent Mino Raiola for €1.3 million. EMS and Cruzeiro retained the remaining 20% rights. He made his début for Chievo on 29 October, against Lazio as a substitute; one of only four appearances that season largely due to a knee injury sustained in March 2007. In July 2009, Kerlon officially signed a deal with Inter until June 2012. Kerlon continued to suffer from knee injuries during his time at Inter which some journalists cite as the…

Cruzeiro

Campeonato Mineiro: 2006 Brazil U17

South American Under 17 Football Championship: 2005 Individual

South American U-17 Football Championship top scorer: 2005 South American U-17 Football Championship Best Player: 2005