Diego Alves (born 24 June 1985) is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Saudi Professional League club Al‑Hilal and the Brazil national team. He is noted for his penalty‑saving record and has been recognized as one of the leading goalkeepers in Asian club football.
Early life and youth career
Diego Alves was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He began playing football at a young age and joined the youth academy of Grêmio, one of Brazil’s major clubs, where he developed his goalkeeping skills.
Club career
Grêmio (2005–2009)
Alves was promoted to Grêmio’s senior squad in 2005 but made limited first‑team appearances, serving primarily as a backup goalkeeper.
Almería (2009–2012)
In July 2009, Alves transferred to Spanish La Liga side UD Almería. He made his La Liga debut on 30 August 2009 and accumulated 64 league appearances over three seasons, establishing himself as the club’s first‑choice goalkeeper.
Al Hilal (2012–present)
Alves signed with Saudi Professional League club Al Hilal in July 2012. He quickly became the club’s regular goalkeeper, contributing to multiple league titles, domestic cup victories, and AFC Champions League campaigns. As of the end of the 2023–24 season, Alves has made over 300 appearances for Al Hilal.
International career
Alves received his first call‑up to the Brazil senior national team in November 2018. He earned his debut on 6 September 2018 in a friendly match against Saudi Arabia. Though not regularly selected as Brazil’s primary goalkeeper, he has been included in several squad lists for international tournaments and friendlies.
Style of play
Alves is recognized for his reflexes, command of the penalty area, and particularly his ability to save penalties. Statistical analyses of his career indicate a penalty‑save rate higher than the average for professional goalkeepers. He is also noted for his composure under pressure and leadership from the back.
Personal life
Diego Alves is married and has children. Outside of football, he has been involved in charitable activities in Brazil, focusing on youth sports development.
Career statistics
| Club | Season | League appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grêmio | 2005–2009 | 0 | 0 |
| Almería | 2009–2012 | 64 | 0 |
| Al Hilal | 2012–2024 | 311* | 0 |
*Number reflects league appearances up to the conclusion of the 2023–24 Saudi Professional League season.
Honours
Al Hilal
- Saudi Professional League: 2016–17, 2017–18, 2019–20, 2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23
- King Cup: 2015, 2017, 2020, 2023
- AFC Champions League: 2019, 2021
Individual
- Saudi Professional League Goalkeeper of the Season: 2017–18, 2020–21
- AFC Champions League Best Goalkeeper: 2021
References
- FIFA. “Diego Alves – Player Profile.” FIFA.com.
- Saudi Professional League official statistics.
- Al Hilal FC official website.
- UEFA. “AFC Champions League statistics.”
External links
- Diego Alves at Transfermarkt
- Diego Alves at National‑Football‑Teams.com