Éder Citadin Martins, commonly known as Éder, was born on November 15, 1986, in Brazil. He discovered his love for soccer at a young age and began playing for Criciúma in his native country. His talent did not go unnoticed, and in 2005, he made the bold decision to sign with Italian club Empoli, marking the beginning of his professional soccer career.
Éder's skill and dedication on the field quickly caught the attention of the soccer world. He played domestically in Serie A with clubs such as Sampdoria and Inter Milan, showcasing his scoring prowess and impressive footwork. His hard work paid off when he made his debut for the Italian national team in 2015 during their Euro 2016 qualifying matches.
Éder's most memorable moment came during Italy's run to the European Championship semifinals in 2016. He played a crucial role in the team's success, earning Man of the Match honors after Italy defeated Sweden. Despite facing criticism from some, including Roberto Mancini, for his inclusion on the Italian team, coach Antonio Conte defended his decision by pointing to other foreign-born players who had proudly represented Italy before.
Éder's connection to Italy goes beyond the soccer field. He qualifies for Italy's national team through his great-grandfather's nationality and his own citizenship, obtained through residency in the country. This deep-rooted tie to Italy adds an extra layer of significance to his career and accomplishments as a professional soccer player.
Éder's journey from humble beginnings in Brazil to becoming a standout player on the international stage is truly inspiring. His perseverance, skill, and passion for the game have solidified his place as a respected figure in the world of soccer. Whether scoring goals in Serie A or representing Italy on the national team, Éder's impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come. As he continues to make his mark on the soccer world, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this talented athlete.