Biography
Who is Hulk?
Early life and real name
Givanildo Vieira de Sousa was born on July 25, 1986, in Campina Grande, Brazil. He acquired his famous nickname from his father, who was a fan of The Incredible Hulk television series starring Lou Ferrigno.
Hulk started playing football professionally with Esporte Clube Vitória in Salvador, Bahia, where he signed his first professional contract at age 16. While playing in the youth system, he appeared as a left winger, midfielder, forward, and fullback.
Career highlights
After his early stint in Brazil, Hulk moved to Japan to play for Kawasaki Frontale and was later loaned to Consadole Sapporo, where he scored 25 goals in the second division during the 2006 season. He subsequently joined Tokyo Verdy, scoring 37 goals in 42 matches to become the top goal scorer of the season.
Hulk later transferred to Portuguese club Porto, winning ten titles, including the 2010–11 UEFA Europa League and three national championships. He established himself as an automatic first choice and was crowned the league top scorer once, also receiving the Portuguese Championship Player of the Month award a record six times.
Zenit and international play
In September 2012, Hulk completed a transfer to Russian Premier League club Zenit Saint Petersburg. During his time with the club, he won all three domestic honours and was named the competition best player and top scorer, once each. He also scored key goals in the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League.
Hulk made his international debut for the Brazil national team in 2009. He represented his country at the 2012 Summer Olympics as one of the three permitted over age players, and went on to participate in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup victory and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Birthday and age
Hulk was born on July 25, 1986, which makes Hulk 40 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Hulk shares the date with 27 other famous people.
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