
Gabriel
Barbosa Almeida

Cruzeiro
Gabriel Barbosa: Athlete's Biography

Club Career
Gabriel's professional debut was with Santos FC on January 17, 2013, in a friendly against Grêmio Barueri. At 16, he began his league career in a match against Flamengo and soon scored his first professional goal in a Copa do Brasil match against Grêmio. His ascent continued with standout performances, such as scoring a brace during the 2014 Campeonato Paulista, culminating in seven goals in the tournament. Gabriel secured a top scorer title in the 2015 Copa do Brasil and had a significant impact in Brasileirão campaigns, showcasing his talent as a prime forward.
Gabriel's European venture began on August 27, 2016, when he joined Inter Milan for a reported €29.5 million transfer. Despite high expectations, his stint in Europe was challenging, including a brief loan to Benfica where he saw limited action.
Returning to Santos on loan in 2018, he reaffirmed his prowess with performances like his first professional hat-trick and being the Copa do Brasil's top scorer again. His move to Flamengo in 2019 marked a revitalization of his career, where he became crucial in their Copa Libertadores victories in 2019 and 2022.
Flamengo officially signed Gabriel permanently in January 2020, where he continued to achieve significant milestones, such as becoming the youngest player to score 100 goals in Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. In 2023, Gabriel reached 150 total goals for Flamengo, joining the club's esteemed ranks in scoring history.
National Team Career
Youth National Teams
Gabriel's international journey began with Brazil's under-15 team in 2011, leading to further appearances with the under-17, under-20, and under-23 teams. His key moment came with the under-23 squad during the 2016 Olympics, where he scored essential goals, contributing to Brazil securing a gold medal.
Senior National Team
Gabriel made his senior debut in May 2016 during a friendly against Panama, scoring on his first appearance. Over the years, his involvement included participation in the Copa América Centenario and the 2021 Copa América, among other engagements, showcasing his capability on the international stage.
Gabriel Barbosa Almeida, known as Gabigol or Gabi, is a distinguished Brazilian professional football player who plays as a forward for the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Cruzeiro. Beginning his professional journey at the young age of 16 with Santos FC, Gabriel's impressive talent and knack for scoring have made him a celebrated figure in Brazilian football. With critical goals in major tournaments like the Copa Libertadores and success across multiple clubs, Gabriel has solidified his reputation as one of the top forwards in South America.
Achievements
Team Achievements
- Santos: Campeonato Paulista: 2015, 2016
- Flamengo: Copa Libertadores: 2019, 2022; Recopa Sudamericana: 2020; Campeonato Brasileiro Série A: 2019, 2020; Copa do Brasil: 2022, 2024; Supercopa do Brasil: 2020, 2021; Campeonato Carioca: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024
- Brazil U23: Olympic Gold Medal: 2016
Individual Achievements
- South American Footballer of the Year: 2019
- Bola de Ouro: 2019
- Top Scorer in various tournaments, including Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro
- Multiple Team of the Year honors in Campeonato Paulista and Campeonato Carioca
Awards and Recognition
Gabriel has been recognized extensively for his contributions on the field, receiving awards such as the Bola de Prata and being selected as the best forward in Brazil for consecutive years.
Career Overview
Gabriel Barbosa's impactful career is marked by tremendous goal-scoring achievements and strategic play, earning him a formidable spot in the annals of Brazilian football history. His presence has been instrumental in victories for clubs such as Flamengo, demonstrating both his influential talent and popularity among fans.
Off the Field
While the article does not elaborate significantly on Gabriel's commercial or charity activities, his high-profile role in South American football presents various avenues for influence beyond the field.
Personal Life
The article does not provide extensive details on Gabriel's personal life beyond his professional endeavors. Nonetheless, his public persona and continuous engagement with Brazilian football contribute to his well-rounded image both as a player and a public figure.