Léo Pereira, born in Curitiba, is a left-footed center-back who combines solid technique, physical presence, and the ability to build plays from the back. A product of Athletico Paranaense’s youth system, he stood out early on for his aerial imposition and above-average tactical awareness for his age. He began making appearances for the first team between 2015 and 2016, but it was between 2018 and 2019 that he truly shined at the Furacão (nickname of Athletico Paranaense).

Under coach Tiago Nunes, Léo was a key figure in Athletico’s 2018 Copa Sudamericana and 2019 Copa do Brasil title runs, forming a solid backline, with both Thiago Heleno and Anderson Bambu, displaying maturity both in defense and distribution. His calm demeanor, combined with precise tackles and accurate long passes, gained national attention.

In 2020, he was signed by Flamengo to replace Pablo Marí, taking on a major challenge. His early days at the Rio de Janeiro club were marked by ups and downs, with fans criticizing him for some defensive errors and lapses in focus, even gaining the nickname of "Léo Peneira" (Léo Sieve) for a time. However, from 2022 onward — under coaches Dorival Júnior, Jorge Sampaoli, and later Tite — Léo Pereira turned things around and became an absolute starter, reaching his peak form with the Flamengo shirt.

With strong positioning, physical strength, and refined technique for a defender, he also began contributing offensively, especially during set pieces and aerial duels. His chemistry with fellow defenders, mainly with Léo Ortiz, and emotional growth — showing more leadership and confidence — made him an indispensable piece in Flamengo’s squad, especially during the 2022 Copa do Brasil and Copa Libertadores winning campaigns and other titles, as the Super Copa do Brasil 2025 and the Carioca Championships of 2024 and 2025 (Rio de Janeiro State).

Other Links:
Léo Pereira - Wikipedia Portuguese
Léo Pereira - Wikipedia English
Athlético Paranaense 2018-2019 - Esquadrões Imortais | Imortais do Futebol | Portugusese
From villain to hero: Léo Pereira experiences epic redemption in the Copa Libertadores | Central Bola Fla | Portuguese

Videos:
Leo Pereira | Flamengo | Defensive Skills & Gols | 2023
Leo Pereira | Flamengo | Defensive Skills & Gols | 2024