Miami FC has inked former Major League Soccer (MLS) defender Adaílton Jose dos Santos Filho. The Brazilian center back has proven to be a standout defender with extensive international soccer experience at all levels, from the Brazilian Serie B to the French Ligue 1.
“Adaílton is truly an asset to the development of this team,” Miami FC head coach Alessandro Nesta said. “His extensive experience and determined mindset is a great addition to our roster and he will be a key player as we move into our first season.”
Adaílton began his career with Brazilian Serie B club Vitória in 2002 and quickly established himself as a dominant force in the back line. The following year, he sealed a championship win with Brazil’s U-20 team in FIFA’s World Youth Championship. Adaílton then transferred to Ligue 1’s Rennes and made 42 appearances with the French club.
His would return to Brazil, joining up with Santos FC and he was a key player in the team winning the 2007 Campeonato Paulista title. A few years later, he made the move back to the European leagues and signed with FC Sion in 2010. Almost immediately he became a regular starter for the Swiss team and helped them capture the 2010 – 2011 Swiss Cup. After he concluded his time in the European leagues with a brief loan spell with FC Chiasso, Adaílton went back home to play with Esporte Club Bahia in 2014.
The following year, the 31-year-old defender made his first step into the American soccer leagues with the MLS’s Chicago Fire. He went on to make 19 appearances and one goal during his time with the team. Adaílton brings a wealth of experience to Miami FC with a career total of 12,594 minutes played and 156 appearances across the world.