Wendell Nascimento Borges

Wendell began his footballing education at Iraty SC before moving to Londrina EC, where he spent his final youth years and made his professional debut in 2011.

Wendell's professional journey began at Londrina and Grêmio before a major move to Bayer Leverkusen in 2014. In Germany, he became an undisputed starter, making 250 appearances over seven seasons and establishing himself as one of the best left-backs in the Bundesliga. In 2021, he moved to FC Porto, where he won the Primeira Liga title and the Taça de Portugal. His tenure in Porto was marked by consistent Champions League performances and tactical growth under Sérgio Conceição.

In May 2026, Wendell officially completed a move to São Paulo FC on a contract running until December 2027. The transfer involved complex negotiations with Porto, including a pre-contract agreement signed earlier in the year. Since his arrival at the Morumbí, he has been a regular starter, recording his first assist for the club in late May. His leadership has been vital as São Paulo competes at the top of the Série A and in continental competitions. He remains a key figure in the Brazilian domestic scene, bringing a level of European intensity to the squad.

On the international stage, Wendell earned his senior Brazil debut in early 2024. Throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle, he has been a consistent member of the squad, often serving as the primary left-back for manager Carlo Ancelotti. His defensive solidity and ability to provide width have made him a favorite for high-stakes qualifiers. He is a confirmed member of the Brazil squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where he is expected to play a central role in the defense.

By May 2026, he has reached over 400 professional appearances across Brazil, Germany, and Portugal. His market value remains significant as he enters his peak veteran years. His career trajectory highlights his success in maintaining elite performance levels in the world's most competitive leagues for over a decade. He continues to focus on maintaining his high-intensity style and helping São Paulo achieve further success on the global stage.

Wendell was born and raised in Fortaleza, Ceará, and remains deeply connected to his roots in northeastern Brazil. He is known for his professional, focused, and modest personality, often credited by his coaches for his exemplary discipline. He is a devoted husband to his long-time partner and a dedicated father, citing his family as his primary motivation. He managed the challenges of living in Europe for over ten years with significant maturity and composure.

He currently resides in São Paulo following his return to Brazil, where he has successfully reintegrated into the local culture while maintaining his strong professional habits. Off the pitch, Wendell 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 Brazilian athlete. He is fluent in Portuguese and German, and has achieved a high level of proficiency in Spanish and English.

His humble attitude and dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in every dressing room he has entered. He is involved in several charitable initiatives in Fortaleza, focusing on providing sporting equipment and support for local youth sports programs. His commitment to his family and his professional growth remains the central pillar of his personal narrative. He remains entirely focused on achieving one final global success with the Seleção.