Getting To Know: Adriano Correia

Full name: Adriano Correia Claro
Squad No: 21
Position: Full-back
Date of birth: 26 October 1984
Place of birth: Curitiba, Brazil
Height: 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)
Weight: 67 kg (148 lbs)

Adriano Correia Claro, or simply Adriano was born in one of Brazil's largest cities, Curitiba, Paraná. The promising footballer quickly joined the academy of his hometown club Coritiba Foot Ball Club. Adriano didn't stay in the youth ranks too long as he made his debut with the first team before he turned 18.

The full-back was promoted to Coritiba's first team in 2002 and during the next two and a half years he made a name for himself. Adriano became a regular fixture of the title winning squad. He played in 81 games during his stay with his boyhood club and he also contributed two goals.

In January 2005 Sevilla contacted Curitiba for Adriano's services and they agreed on a €2.1 million transfer fee. Adriano made his debut in Spain against, eventual champions and his current club, FC Barcelona. At Sevilla his versatility really came into play as he was featured in numerous positions. Adriano's stint in Andalusia ended after five and a half years, 216 games and 19 goals.

Adriano's good play was noticed by bigger clubs, including FC Barcelona, who in the end agreed on a fee with Sevilla. The deal was valued at €9.5 million, but depending on conditional fees the transfer could increase by a further €4 million. Adriano made his first appearance with la Blaugrana in the Spanish Super Cup against his previous employer Sevilla FC

 

 

In the current campaign for the Catalan giants, Adriano has been mostly used as a substitute, but several injuries in Barcelona's defense allowed him to play more regularly in recent months. Adriano played well in 30 games so far, also scoring one goal, but his Barcelona career was temporary put on hold because of a muscle injury.

Despite facing fierce competition in Brazil's national team Adriano made a few appearances for the Seleção. His first international action came with Brazil's World Cup winning U-20 squad. In 2003 Adriano made his debut for the first team and since then he has played in nine games for the Green and Yellow, but he is still waiting for his first national team tally.

Profile
Adriano is one of the most versatile players you will come across. He can play on either side of the defense, in midfield and even as winger, again, regardless of the side. Adriano is very quick and skillful with the ball with both feet, as he is naturally two-footed, but his small frame can lead him into trouble when facing physical opponents. Adriano's very attacking mentality can leave him out of position on defense, while his tackling also isn't one of his strongest attributes.

Honors
Coritiba Foot Ball Club

Sevilla FC

FC Barcelona

Brazil

Adriano signed a four year contract with Barcelona in the summer of 2010. The deal includes an option for a fifth year, that will keep him at the Camp Nou until 2015, and a €90 million buyout clause.

Next: THE man, Eric Abidal

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