Ricardo Oliveira, Brazilian footballer

Ricardo José Dognella Lima de Oliveira, widely known simply as Ricardo Oliveira (Brazilian Portuguese: [ʁiˈkaʁdu oliˈvejɾɐ]), born on May 6, 1980, is a distinguished Brazilian professional footballer whose career has spanned multiple continents and seen him become a prolific goal-scorer. Primarily playing as a striker, he currently continues his impressive journey with the Brazilian club Athletic Club (Athletic-MG). His career is a testament to longevity and consistent performance at the highest levels of the sport, both domestically in Brazil and across Europe, most notably in Spain's La Liga, and on the international stage with the revered Brazilian national team.

A Storied Club Career Across Continents

Ricardo Oliveira's club career began in Brazil, where he forged a formidable reputation with two of the country's most iconic footballing institutions. He enjoyed significant spells with both São Paulo FC and Santos FC, each across two different periods, cementing his status as a fan favorite and a reliable goal threat. These stints were crucial for his development and saw him contribute significantly to their respective campaigns, often playing a pivotal role in their successes in major Brazilian competitions.

His talents soon caught the eye of European clubs, leading him to Spain where he truly left his mark on La Liga. Across three different teams – Valencia CF, Real Betis, and Real Zaragoza – Oliveira amassed an impressive total of 120 appearances, finding the back of the net 58 times. This remarkable goal-scoring record highlights his adaptability and effectiveness in one of Europe's top leagues. At Real Betis, for instance, he became a key figure, known for his predatory instincts in the box and his clinical finishing. His time in Spain showcased his ability to consistently perform at an elite level, contributing crucial goals for his teams.

Beyond his time in Spain, Oliveira also had a brief but notable stint with Italian giants AC Milan, further diversifying his European experience before eventually returning to Brazilian football. His return saw him continue to ply his trade with several prominent clubs, including another successful spell at Santos, and later with Atlético Mineiro, where he continued to demonstrate his enduring quality and passion for the game, ultimately leading him to his current club, Athletic Club (Athletic-MG).

International Recognition with the Seleção

Ricardo Oliveira’s consistent club form earned him the coveted call-up to the Brazilian national team, famously known as the *Seleção*. He proudly represented Brazil for over a decade, making his debut in 2004 and continuing to be a part of the squad until 2016. This longevity in a team renowned for its wealth of attacking talent speaks volumes about his quality and reliability.

During his international career, Oliveira was an integral part of two significant triumphs for Brazil. He helped the national team secure the prestigious Copa América in 2004, a paramount South American football tournament that showcases the continent's best talent. A year later, he was again instrumental as Brazil lifted the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2005, a tournament that served as a precursor to the World Cup, pitting champions from different confederations against each other. These victories underscore his contribution to a golden era for Brazilian football and solidify his place among the nation's respected international players.

FAQs About Ricardo Oliveira

What is Ricardo Oliveira's full name?

His full name is Ricardo José Dognella Lima de Oliveira.

Which major clubs did Ricardo Oliveira play for in Brazil?

He played significant roles for São Paulo FC and Santos FC (across two spells each), and also for Atlético Mineiro, among others, currently with Athletic Club (Athletic-MG).

What were Ricardo Oliveira's achievements in La Liga?

In Spain's La Liga, Ricardo Oliveira scored an impressive 58 goals in 120 appearances across three clubs: Valencia CF, Real Betis, and Real Zaragoza, establishing himself as a prolific striker.

Did Ricardo Oliveira win any major international titles with Brazil?

Yes, he helped the Brazilian national team win the Copa América in 2004 and the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2005.

What position did Ricardo Oliveira primarily play?

Ricardo Oliveira is primarily a striker, known for his clinical finishing and predatory instincts inside the penalty area.

Which "Athletic" club does he currently play for?

He currently plays for Athletic Club, a Brazilian football club based in São João del-Rei, Minas Gerais (often referred to as Athletic-MG to distinguish it).