Former Barcelona icon Dani Alves officially buys club, launching ownership era with ambitious third-tier investment.
The 42-year-old Brazilian football icon, fresh from legal clearance and a career hiatus, dives back into the game through ownership stakes, blending legacy with entrepreneurial flair at a humble third-division outfit near Porto.
Backed by Brazilian investors, the move fuses his trophy-laden resume—three Champions Leagues, two Copa Américas—with grassroots ambition, potentially paving a playing swansong amid Portugal’s competitive pyramid.
São João de Ver heralds a “historic” alliance, eyeing promotion under Alves’ visionary helm.
Dani Alves has snapped up 50% of Sporting Clube de São João de Ver’s SAD shares, with the remainder slated post-season—AS confirms winter signing prospects for the ex-Barcelona, Sevilla, Juventus, and PSG maestro.
Frozen since Pumas axed him in 2023 amid an overturned rape conviction (acquitted March 2025), Alves eyes a six-month stint channeling Vinícius Jr.’s Alverca blueprint.
Club statement gushes: “A new historic page dawns—ambition meets identity. Dani’s winning mentality transforms potential into greatness alongside our resilient roots.”
Founded in 1929 in Santa Maria da Feira (Aveiro region), São João de Ver boasts a Brazilian trio, including ex-Palmeiras’ Washington, and Alves joins as a global catalyst.
Post-14-month detention, Alves rebuilds: “Visionary global mindset unites with community passion for sustainable inspiration.” MaisFutebol flags full buyout intent, mirroring rising owner-player trends.
Alves’ haul—43 Brazil caps, Barcelona zenith (2012-22)—infuses third-tier grit. Portugal’s ladder tempts ascent; playing return whispers electrify.
Dani Alves’ audacious São João de Ver acquisition marks a phoenix-like resurgence for the 42-year-old legend—from Barcelona’s treble maestro and Brazil’s record cap-holder to Portuguese third-division visionary.
Merging trophy-haunted nous with grassroots grit near Porto, this 50% stake—poised for full control—whispers of a playing encore amid investor backing.
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