Leonardo de Deus Santos, commonly known as Dede, was born on April 18, 1978 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. From a young age, he showed great promise in the sport of soccer and began playing for various local clubs in his hometown. At the age of 18, he made his professional debut with Atletico Mineiro, a Brazilian side, where he quickly caught the attention of scouts from top European clubs.
In 1998, Dede made the bold decision to move to Germany and join Borussia Dortmund, a decision that would shape the trajectory of his career. Known for his impressive speed, agility, and defensive abilities, Dede quickly established himself as a key player for the team. He played a crucial role in helping Borussia Dortmund win two Bundesliga championships in 2002 and 2011, solidifying his status as a fan favorite and a legend at the club.
While Dede may have been a standout player at the club level, he also had the opportunity to represent his country on the international stage. In 2004, he made his only appearances for the Brazilian national team, where he showcased his skills and helped the team achieve success in various competitions.
Off the field, Dede has always been a family man, with two brothers named Lucas and Leandro, who also pursued careers as professional soccer players. Despite his busy schedule as a player, Dede always made time for his loved ones and prioritized his family above all else.
After retiring from professional soccer, Dede took on a new role as an assistant coach for the Turkish club Eskisehirspor in 2015. His years of experience as a player provided valuable insights and guidance for the team, helping them improve and succeed on the field.
Throughout his career, Dede has been known for his dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport of soccer. His legacy as a player will always be remembered by fans worldwide, and his contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.
One of Dede's most memorable moments was playing alongside Mario Gotze during Borussia Dortmund's championship run in 2010-2011. Their partnership on the field was a key factor in the team's success, and their chemistry and teamwork were admired by fans and critics alike.