Luizão, West Ham United’s latest signing, is still getting used to his new surroundings.
Born and raised in the vibrant, bustling Brazilian metropolis of São Paulo, the defender moved across the Atlantic Ocean to sign with the Hammers in early January.
At a quick glance, perhaps one might believe there is not too much difference between the centre of South American financial trading and the English capital, London.
For the 20-year-old, though, there is plenty to experience and adapt to, not least the climate!
Luizão got his first taste English on a cold and windy evening in Southport, coming off the substitutes’ bench for the U21s in a 2-1 Premier League 2 Division 1 win away to Everton.
The experience was very different to his previous competitive appearance – a 1-0 defeat by SC Internacional in Campeonato Brasileiro Série A in mid-November – but one the rookie centre-back very much relished.
“Travelling with the U21s was completely different, in a really good way,” he smiled. “I’d say it was a bit tough due to the language barrier, and I’m still adapting and learning English. But it was amazing to have that experience, to feel the warmth of English football… and also the cold!
“All the players are full of desire. I really liked the experience and that we won the game as well on my debut. Winning helps you relax too, so it was a really good experience.
“When I went out on the pitch, I was a bit anxious and nervous. It was as if I’d never played football before! But then when I got my first touch on the ball all that stress and anxiety went away and I was a lot more calm. I felt I could play my game, and I enjoyed it.”
Moving away from home, particularly such a distance, is always going to be tough for any young person, but Luizão has drawn on the experience of living away from his family, having moved into club facilities when he joined his previous club as a teenager.
“When I joined São Paulo at 15-years-old, I lived at the club and I was away from my family,” he explained. “It’s difficult but I had to adapt and get used to it.
“Because of that, it’s something I’m able to do. I just need to iron out a few things. Like the language, that’s mainly on the pitch though. But I’m adapting and really happy to be here.”
With five years developing at an Academy that previously produced the likes of Kaká, Casemiro and Ederson, Luizão has learned from the very best in the sport.
This past 18 months, he has also been mentored by former Brazil, Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan defender Miranda (pictured, below), who returned to São Paulo in 2021 after a decade in Europe, and the youngster has picked up many pointers from the 38-year-old.
“I’m a centre-back, I think I’m quick and tall, physically imposing and I’m good at playing out from the back,” he observed, when asked to discuss his qualities. “I’d say I’m technical too, and Miranda was an inspiration for me. I played alongside him last year at São Paulo.
“I've also seen many videos of Paolo Maldini. He’s left-footed as well and even played at left-back. I take inspiration in how he was so calm but also imposing when he needed to be. Sergio Ramos is another one with how aggressive he is. Being aggressive is important for a centre-back. Those three would be my idols.”
Luizão is settling into his new surroundings. Whether training at the facilities at Rush Green, or working at the historic Chadwell Heath, he is eager to make the most of his opportunities in Claret and Blue.
“This is the biggest opportunity I’ve had in my life so far,” he enthused. “West Ham are one of the biggest teams in England and are known as a traditional club. This is my opportunity to earn the chance to play in the Premier League, and hit new heights in my life.
“I’ve known about some of the players that are here and have been here. I know West Ham have developed big players like Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, and Declan Rice. I think this is a great club for developing players, a traditional English team that I can fit in well at. There are some great people at this Club who can really help in my development.
“Right now, my main ambition is to get into the first team and play games. But I have high aspirations. I want to achieve big things at the Club. I want to win trophies and I want to play in Europe – that’s my biggest dream! I hope I can do it with West Ham.”
