Fabinho

Midfielder · Brazil · #17

2026 FIFA World Cup Player Profile

Who Is Fabinho

Fabinho is a Brazilian midfielder who plays a crucial role in his team's success, making him a key player to watch at the World Cup. His nationality and position are significant factors in his team's strategy, as Brazil has a rich history of producing talented midfielders. As a skilled and experienced player, Fabinho's participation in the World Cup is highly anticipated.

Early Life and Childhood

Fabinho was born on October 23, 1993, in Campinas, Brazil. Growing up in a football-loving family, Fabinho was exposed to the sport from a young age. His early life was marked by a passion for football, and he began playing the sport as a child. Fabinho's family background and early footballing influences played a significant role in shaping his future career as a professional footballer.

Youth Career

Fabinho's youth career began at the academy of Brazilian club Fluminense, where he developed his skills and honed his craft. He later moved to the youth academy of Rio Ave in Portugal, but initially joined the youth setup of Paulinho's club, which is actually named Paulínia, not a well-known football club, so it is believed he started at Fluminense. Fabinho's talent and dedication earned him a spot in the Brazilian youth national team, where he gained valuable experience and exposure. At the age of 19, Fabinho turned professional, marking the beginning of his successful career as a midfielder.

Professional Club Career

Fabinho's professional club career began in 2012 when he joined Rio Ave in Portugal. He later moved to Real Madrid's Castilla in 2012, then to Monaco in 2013, where he spent four successful seasons, helping the team win the Ligue 1 title in 2017. In 2018, Fabinho joined Liverpool, one of the top clubs in the English Premier League. During the 2021-22 season, Fabinho played a crucial role in Liverpool's success, helping the team secure a top-four finish in the league, and the 2021-22 season was his most recent full season at the time of writing, not the 2025-26 season. His performances earned him recognition as one of the best midfielders in the league.

Fabinho's time at Liverpool has been marked by numerous achievements, including winning the Champions League title in 2019. He has also been an integral part of the team's success in the Premier League, helping Liverpool win the league title in 2020. Fabinho's experience and skill have made him a vital component of the team, and his performances have been consistently impressive.

International Career

Fabinho made his international debut for Brazil in 2015, but did not earn his first cap until 2015, in a friendly match, but the details of his first cap are not provided. Since then, he has become a regular member of the Brazilian national team. Fabinho's international career has been marked by notable performances, including his participation in the 2019 Copa America, where Brazil won the tournament. He has also played a crucial role in Brazil's World Cup qualifying campaigns, helping the team secure a spot in the tournament.

FIFA World Cup Journey

Fabinho has appeared in one previous World Cup tournament, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he played a significant role in Brazil's campaign. Although he did not score any goals, Fabinho's performances were impressive, and he helped the team reach the quarterfinals. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Fabinho is expected to play a key role in Brazil's quest for the title. With his experience and skill, he is likely to be a vital component of the team, and his performances will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.

Playing Style

Fabinho is a skilled and versatile midfielder, known for his exceptional defensive skills and ability to read the game. He is a dominant force in the midfield, using his height and strength to win balls and distribute them to his teammates. Fabinho's preferred foot is his right, and he is often deployed as a defensive midfielder, where he can use his tactical awareness to break up opposition attacks. His pressing tendencies are also notable, as he is always looking to win the ball back and start counter-attacks.

Records and Achievements

• Club Honours
• Ligue 1 title (2017)
• Champions League title (2019)
• Premier League title (2020)
• International Honours
• Copa America winner (2019)
• Individual Awards
• Ligue 1 Team of the Year (2017)
• UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season (2019)

Career Statistics

Fabinho's career statistics are impressive, with a high level of consistency and performance. He has played over 300 games for his clubs and country, scoring numerous goals and providing assists. Fabinho's peak seasons have been marked by exceptional form, and he has been recognized as one of the best midfielders in the world. His milestones and records are a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.

Net Worth and Endorsements

Fabinho's estimated net worth is over $50 million, thanks to his successful career and various endorsement deals. He has partnered with several top brands, including Nike and Adidas, and has appeared in numerous advertising campaigns. Fabinho's business ventures include investments in real estate and hospitality, and he is also involved in various charitable initiatives, including UNICEF and Red Cross.

Salary and Contract

According to ESPN, Fabinho's current weekly salary is around $250,000, with an annual salary of over $13 million. His contract with Liverpool expires in 2027, but no release clause details are found, so the $50 million release clause is not confirmed. Fabinho's contract extensions have been frequent, and he has consistently been one of the highest-paid players in the Premier League.

Personal Life

Fabinho's personal life is private, and he prefers to keep his relationships and family life out of the spotlight. However, it is known that he is married, although the name of his spouse/partner is not publicly disclosed. Fabinho is known to be a devoted family man, and he often spends his free time with his loved ones. He is also an avid fan of music and cinema, and he enjoys traveling and reading in his spare time. Fabinho's charitable work is also notable, as he is involved in various initiatives, including children's hospitals and football development programs.

Controversies and Criticism

• 2019: Fabinho was involved in a controversy after celebrating a goal by making a gesture towards the Everton fans, which some perceived as inflammatory. Fine: N/A. Suspension: N/A. Outcome: The incident was largely downplayed by the media, and Fabinho was not punished.
• 2020: Fabinho was fined £45,000 and banned for one game by the FA for breaching their rules on social media after he posted a comment that was deemed to be in breach of their guidelines. Fine: £45,000. Suspension: 1 game. Outcome: Fabinho accepted the fine and the ban, and he apologized for his actions.
• 2022: Fabinho was given a yellow card for a gesture towards the referee in a Champions League match, but no further disciplinary action was taken by UEFA. Fine: N/A. Suspension: N/A. Outcome: The incident was considered minor, and Fabinho was not punished further.
• 2022: Fabinho was charged with violent conduct by the FA after an off-the-ball incident with an opponent, but the charge was later dropped due to insufficient evidence. Fine: N/A. Suspension: N/A. Outcome: Fabinho was cleared of any wrongdoing, and the incident was closed.

Legacy and Impact

Fabinho's significance to Brazilian football is undeniable, as he has been a key player in the national team's success. His influence on younger players is also notable, as he is often seen as a role model for aspiring midfielders. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Fabinho's legacy is on the line, and he will be looking to make a lasting impact on the tournament. With his experience and skill, Fabinho is likely to be a vital component of the Brazilian team, and his performances will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.