How a Brazilian midfielder shattered the record for oldest goalscorer in Brazil
In short: In a sport where careers often fade by the mid-30s, Nenê has defied the biological clock. From the pitch in Spain and France to breaking records in Brazil, this attacking midfielder has amassed over 1,100 official appearances, proving that elite skill can endure well into a player's 40s.
Anderson Luiz de Carvalho, known globally as Nenê, has carved out a career defined by longevity and technical flair. Born in Jundiaí, São Paulo, on 19 July 1981, the Brazilian attacking midfielder began his professional journey with Etti Jundiaí at age 19. His path eventually led him through the top tiers of European football, including significant stints in Spain's La Liga and France's Ligue 1.
During his time in France, Nenê became a standout performer. While playing for Monaco, he was named the best foreign player in Ligue 1 in 2010. He later joined Paris Saint-Germain in July 2010 for a fee estimated at €5.5 million. At PSG, he achieved significant success, including winning the 2012–13 Ligue 1 title and being named to the UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year for both the 2010–11 and 2011–12 seasons.
However, it is his recent history in Brazil that has cemented his legacy of endurance. Nenê surpassed Rogério Ceni's previous mark on 15 August 2024, becoming the oldest scorer in Brasileirão Série A at 43 years and 26 days old. By netting another goal on 21 August 2025, aged 44 years and 32 days, he pushed this record even higher.
Beyond the pitch, Nenê has engaged in significant philanthropic efforts, such as organizing annual charity matches in his hometown with Neymar to provide food for families in need.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Nenê (footballer, born 1981)
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