Biography
Who is Johnny Cardoso?
Early life and real name
Johnny Cardoso: João Lucas de Souza Cardoso was born on September 20, 2001, in Denville Township, New Jersey. He was born to Brazilian parents and moved to Brazil when he was three months old. During his youth development, he had stints at Avaí and Criciúma before joining the youth academy of Internacional.
He holds an Italian passport, which allows him to be registered as an European Union player for European leagues. Growing up with dual heritage, he gained eligibility to represent both Brazil and the United States on the international stage.
Club career
Johnny made his professional debut with Internacional on September 15, 2019, in a match against Atlético Mineiro. He scored his first professional goal on March 4, 2021, in a draw against Pelotas during the Campeonato Gaúcho. By the end of his time with Internacional, he had appeared in 144 matches and scored seven goals.
On December 27, 2023, Johnny transferred to La Liga club Real Betis on a five-year contract. He debuted for Betis on January 21, 2024, in a match against FC Barcelona. During his stint with Betis, he helped the squad finish as runner-up in the UEFA Conference League and secure a sixth-place finish in La Liga.
On July 16, 2025, Johnny moved to Atlético Madrid on a five-year contract. He scored his first goal for Atlético Madrid on February 24, 2026, in a Champions League match against Club Brugge. In May 2026, he underwent surgery for an ankle injury, which ruled him out of the FIFA World Cup.
International career
Johnny received his first call-up to the United States under-23 training camp in October 2019. He earned his first call-up to the senior United States squad in November 2020 for matches against Wales and Panama. He later represented the under-23 team at the 2020 CONCACAF Men's Olympic Qualifying Championship.
In June 2023, Johnny joined the United States squad for the final phase of the CONCACAF Nations League. He appeared as a second-half substitute in the final against Canada as the United States won the tournament. He also won another CONCACAF Nations League title with the national team during the 2023 to 2024 cycle.
Birthday and age
Johnny Cardoso was born on September 20, 2001, which makes Johnny 25 years old today. That birthday falls under the Virgo sign. Johnny shares the date with 62 other famous people.
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