Luiz De Araújo Guimarães Neto

Luiz Araújo began his footballing education at Mirassol before joining the São Paulo FC youth academy in 2013, where he spent three years developing the technical foundation and speed that would lead to his senior debut in 2016.

Luiz Araújo began his professional career at São Paulo before a high-profile move to Lille in 2017. In France, he played a heroic role in Lille winning the 2020-21 Ligue 1 title and the 2021 Trophée des Champions. In 2021, he moved to Atlanta United as a Designated Player, recording numerous goals and assists in the MLS. In June 2023, Flamengo secured his signature in a transfer worth approximately €9 million. In Rio de Janeiro, his career reached new heights, winning the 2025 Copa Libertadores, the 2025 Série A, and the 2024 Copa do Brasil.

During the 2025-2026 season, Luiz's status as a top-tier winger was cemented. During the current 2026 campaign, he has recording 10 matches, 1 goal, and 1 assist as of May 15, 2026. In May 2026, he featured in several high-stakes matches, including a 2-1 win against Vitória in the Copa do Brasil and a standout performance against Vasco da Gama on May 3. His ability to initiate transitions and his 88.7% passing accuracy have been central to Flamengo's dominance. He remains under a long-term contract with the club until December 31, 2027, with several European clubs continuing to monitor his progress.

On the international stage, Luiz Araújo earned his senior Brazil debut following his dominant form in the domestic league. Throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle, he has been a consistent member of the squad pool, providing manager Carlo Ancelotti with a highly technical and energetic option on the wings. His performances during international friendlies and qualifiers have solidified his role as a key tactical asset. He is currently a candidate for the final 2026 FIFA World Cup roster, valued for his big-game experience and offensive flair. He continues to provide the Seleção with essential creative options as the tournament approaches.

By May 2026, he has reached over 400 professional appearances and 12 major professional titles across France, USA, and Brazil. His market value remains significant, reflecting his status as one of the best wingers in South America. His tactical growth under managers like Christophe Galtier and Leonardo Jardim has seen him become a more complete player. He continues to focus on helping Flamengo achieve further continental success while maintaining his high levels of concentration. His career trajectory highlights the successful export and return of Brazilian attacking talent.

Luiz Araújo was born and raised in Itaverava and remains deeply connected to his roots and his family in Minas Gerais. He is known for his professional, focused, and modest personality, often credited by his coaches for his exemplary work ethic. He is a devoted husband to Ingrid Cantarini and a dedicated father to a daughter, citing his family as the primary reason for his career success across continents. He has managed the challenges of moving across various clubs with significant maturity and composure.

He currently resides in Rio de Janeiro and has fully embraced the 'Carioca' lifestyle and the pressure of representing Flamengo. Off the pitch, Luiz is an avid fan of traditional Brazilian customs and enjoys spending his downtime with a close circle of friends. He is also a brand ambassador for several sports and lifestyle companies, reflecting his status as a top-tier athlete. He is fluent in Portuguese and has achieved a high level of proficiency in French and English. His humble attitude and dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in every dressing room he has entered.

His philanthropic work focuses on providing sporting and educational facilities for children in his hometown of Itaverava. He is involved in several charitable initiatives back in Brazil, focusing on supporting local youth development and healthcare programs in Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais. His commitment to his family and his professional growth remains the central pillar of his personal narrative. He remains entirely focused on achieving further success with both club and country as he enters the peak years of his career.