Joelinton Cássio Apolinário De Lira

Joelinton began his footballing education at the Sport Recife youth academy in 2010, where he spent four years refining his skills before making his professional debut in 2014.

Joelinton began his professional career at Sport Recife before moving to Europe to join Hoffenheim in 2015. After a highly productive loan spell at Rapid Wien, he returned to Germany to showcase his talents in the Bundesliga. In July 2019, Newcastle United secured his signature for a then-club-record fee of £40 million. Initially deployed as a center-forward, he struggled to find consistent scoring form, but his career was revitalized when he was transitioned into a central midfield role in late 2021.

In his new position, Joelinton flourished, winning the Newcastle United Player of the Year award for the 2021-22 season. He played a central role in the club's Champions League qualification and their subsequent deep runs in domestic cups. During the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons, he has been an ever-present figure in the Magpies' midfield, contributing crucial goals and providing essential defensive stability. In May 2026, he remains under contract until June 2028, with his market value significantly higher than his original transfer fee. He has reached over 200 appearances for the club.

On the international stage, Joelinton earned his first senior call-up for Brazil in early 2023. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut against Guinea. Throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle, he has been a consistent member of the squad, providing manager Carlo Ancelotti with a unique physical profile in the midfield. His ability to dominate the center of the park and support the attack has made him a favorite for high-stakes international matches. He is currently in the squad for the 2026 tournament in North America.

By May 2026, he has reached over 15 senior caps for Brazil and remains one of the most physically imposing midfielders in the world. His tactical growth under Eddie Howe has been widely cited as one of the most successful player transformations in Premier League history. He continues to focus on improving his playmaking vision and maintain his elite level of fitness. His career stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to thrive in a new role on the global stage.

Joelinton was raised in a supportive family in Pernambuco and has always been known for his humble and quiet personality. He is a devoted family man, having been married to his long-time partner Thays Gondim for several years. The couple has two children and they frequently share glimpses of their home life in the Northeast of England on social media. Joelinton has fully embraced the culture in Newcastle, becoming a beloved figure in the local community.

Off the pitch, he is an avid fan of traditional Brazilian music and enjoys spending time outdoors with his family. He is known for his professional discipline, often being the first to arrive at training and the last to leave. He is fluent in Portuguese and has mastered English during his seven-year tenure in the United Kingdom. He is also a brand ambassador for various sports and lifestyle companies, reflecting his status as a top-tier Premier League athlete.

His philanthropic work focuses on providing sporting and educational facilities for children in his hometown of Aliança. He is involved in numerous charitable projects in both Brazil and Newcastle, supporting local youth sports programs and community centers. His commitment to his family and his professional ethics has made him one of the most respected and stable figures in the Newcastle dressing room. He remains a key figure in the club's social and community initiatives, admired for his approachable nature.