Early Life and Family History: As a child, Hulk was known for his strong build and powerful play, traits that would later become his trademarks on the field. He earned the nickname “Hulk” due to his physical resemblance to the Marvel Comics character, a name that stuck with him throughout his career.
Career Beginnings: Hulk’s professional career began in Brazil, but his journey to stardom was far from straightforward. He started his youth career with Vitória, a club in Salvador, Bahia. However, his early years in football were marked by struggles to break into the first team and establish himself as a prominent player.
In 2004, Hulk made a bold move to Japan, where he joined Kawasaki Frontale. Although he faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture and style of play, his time in Japan proved to be crucial in his development. He was loaned to several Japanese clubs, including Consadole Sapporo and Tokyo Verdy, where he began to make a name for himself with his powerful performances and goal-scoring ability.
Rise to Stardom: Hulk’s breakthrough came in 2008 when he moved to FC Porto in Portugal. It was here that he truly began to shine, showcasing his strength, speed, and powerful left foot. He quickly became a key player for Porto, helping the club win several titles, including four Primeira Liga championships, three Portuguese Cups, and the UEFA Europa League in 2011.
His performances at Porto caught the attention of top European clubs, and in 2012, Hulk made a high-profile move to Zenit Saint Petersburg in Russia for a reported €60 million, one of the most expensive transfers at the time. At Zenit, he continued to demonstrate his prowess, winning the Russian Premier League and other domestic titles.
In 2016, Hulk made another significant move, this time to Shanghai SIPG in the Chinese Super League. His time in China was marked by both success and controversy. He was one of the league’s top performers, helping Shanghai SIPG win the Chinese Super League in 2018, but also faced criticism for the high transfer fee and salary associated with his move.
Personal Life and Challenges: Hulk’s personal life has been in the spotlight, particularly his relationships. In 2020, he made headlines when he married Camila Ângelo, who is the niece of his ex-wife, Iran Ângelo. The relationship stirred significant media attention and public scrutiny, but Hulk has remained firm in his personal choices.
Later Career and Legacy: After leaving Shanghai SIPG in 2020, Hulk returned to Brazil, joining Atlético Mineiro. He played a crucial role in their success, helping the team win the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A in 2021.
Hulk’s career has been characterized by his physical strength, powerful shots, and versatility on the field, capable of playing both as a forward and winger. Despite facing several challenges and controversies, he has established himself as one of Brazil’s most recognizable footballers.
Real Name: Givanildo Vieira de Sousa
Date of Birth: July 25, 1986
Birth Place: Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil
Residence: Belo Horizonte, Brazil (as of recent years, subject to change)
Profession: Professional Football Player
Nationality: Brazilian
Religion: Christianity
Partner: Camila Ângelo (married in 2020)
Father: Gilvan Souza
Mother: Maria do Socorro
Horoscope: Leo
Age: 38 years (as of 2024)
Weight: Approximately 85 kg (187 lbs)
Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Body Type: Muscular, Athletic
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black