Biography
Who is Zé Roberto?
Early career and professional start
José Roberto da Silva Júnior began his football path in the youth ranks of Palestra de São Bernardo. He eventually moved to Portuguesa, where he played as a left-back. His performance helped the team finish as runners-up in the 1996 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, which brought him recognition across Brazil.
In January 1997, Zé Roberto signed with Real Madrid. During this brief period, he helped the squad secure the 1996–97 La Liga title. He also earned a spot in the 1997–98 UEFA Champions League winning team, scoring one goal against Rosenborg BK. To increase his chances for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, he left Spain midway through the season to play for Flamengo.
Success in Germany
After playing for Flamengo in the first half of 1998, Zé Roberto joined Bayer Leverkusen in the summer. He became a key figure at the club, helping them finish as Bundesliga runners-up on three occasions. He also played in the 2002 UEFA Champions League final, where Leverkusen lost to Real Madrid.
In 2002, he transferred to Bayern Munich. During his time in Germany, he won four Bundesliga titles and achieved three domestic doubles. He spent several seasons with the club, including a second stint that ended in 2009. He also played for Hamburger SV starting in July 2009 after declining a contract extension from Bayern.
Later career and Palmeiras
Zé Roberto spent time with Al-Gharafa in Qatar before returning to Brazil to join Grêmio FBPA in 2012. In 2014, he signed with Palmeiras and was named team captain. He helped the club win the 2015 Copa do Brasil and secured a national championship in Brazil in 2016.
In May 2017, he scored a goal in a Copa Libertadores match against Atlético Tucumán. At 52 years and 10 months old, this made him the oldest player to score in the history of that tournament. He announced his retirement from professional football in November 2017 after a long career that included 961 club games.
Birthday and age
Zé Roberto was born on July 6, 1974, which makes Zé 52 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Zé shares the date with 24 other famous people.
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