David Luiz Makes Surprise Return to Europe at 38 with Shock Move to Pafos FC
- The Brazilian veteran walked away from a one-year deal just seven months into his Fortaleza deal, and fans wondered events that influenced the decision
- Pafos FC has a crucial qualifier against Dynamo Kyiv looming, and now questions swirl over Luiz’s fitness and timing of the signing
- David Luiz won multiple trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, during his successful stint at Chelsea
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Former Chelsea and Brazil defender David Luiz has returned to the continent at the age of 38, in a move that has sent ripples across European football.
The experienced centre-back, who last played in Europe during his stint with Arsenal in 2021, joins the European side on a free transfer after mutually terminating his contract with Brazilian side Fortaleza.
Source: Getty Images
David Luiz joins Pafos FC
The esteemed Brazilian defender has taken his experience to Cypriot outfit Pafos FC. Despite his age and current thigh injury, Luiz has signed a three-year deal that will see him remain at the club until 2027.
David Luiz’s return to European football comes as a surprise to many fans and pundits alike. After leaving Arsenal in 2021, Luiz spent two years with Flamengo and then joined Fortaleza earlier this year.
However, his time at Fortaleza was marred by injuries and limited appearances. According to GOAL, the Brazilian veteran made just 17 appearances under head coach Renato Paiva, struggling to stay fit and break into the starting line-up consistently.
On August 1st, Luiz and Fortaleza agreed to part ways, just seven months into his one-year deal. Many assumed the centre-back might retire or remain in Brazil.
Source: Getty Images
Instead, the ex-Chelsea centre-back stunned the footballing world by securing a move to Cyprus-based Pafos FC—a club that will be competing in the UEFA Champions League this season.
Pafos FC announces Luiz signing
Pafos FC’s official announcement framed the signing as a landmark transfer and a historic moment for Cypriot football.
And with good reason. David Luiz is not just a veteran player; he’s a global icon who has played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal.
He has won the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, Ligue 1, and multiple domestic cups throughout his decorated career.
Bringing in a player of Luiz’s stature not only boosts Pafos’s defensive options but also elevates the club’s profile on the European stage.
His leadership and experience will be invaluable, especially for a squad preparing to compete in the Champions League.
While Luiz won’t feature in the upcoming third-round qualifier against Dynamo Kyiv due to a thigh injury, the club hopes he will return in time for the later stages of the competition.
Though some may question the length of Luiz’s contract—three years for a 38-year-old defender—the Brazilian has consistently defied age expectations throughout his career.
Known for his passion, charisma, and unorthodox style of play, Luiz brings more than just defensive capabilities; he brings personality, a winning mentality, and a wealth of experience.
David Luiz discloses love for Ghana
YEN.com.gh earlier reported on David Luiz's expression of love for Ghana after the ex-Chelsea defender signed for Fortaleza back in February of this year.
Luiz played alongside Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien at Chelsea, and it was not surprising that he publicly showed his admiration for the West African nation.
Source: YEN.com.gh
