Birthday boy of the month 2: Henrique turns 40

At just 21 years of age, Henrique joined Bayer 04 and was part of the squad managed by Bruno Labbadia for the 2008/09 season. On the very first matchday of the Bundesliga season, the new signing was in the starting line-up against Borussia Dortmund. In the weeks that followed, the Brazilian remained a mainstay in defence. In total, Henrique made 27 Bundesliga appearances for the Werkself.

He impressed above all with his physical presence and defensive solidity. Henrique played both as a centre-back and at right-back. Bayer 04 enjoyed a strong Hinrunde and were in fifth place at the winter break. But things didn’t go to plan in the Rückrunde. In the end, however, the team still reached the DFB Pokal final in Berlin. There, Bayer 04 lost 1-0 to Werder Bremen – Henrique spent the entire 90 minutes on the bench.

retirement at 37

Following his loan spell, the defender returned to Barcelona, but did not stay there for long. He continued his career at Racing Santander. Later, he played again for Palmeiras, Napoli, Fluminense and Corinthians, amongst others. He won the Coppa Italia with Napoli in 2014. He also represented Brazil, making a total of six international appearances. Henrique ended his career where he started. At the age of 34, he joined Coritiba FC on a three-year deal and made a further 89 appearances. In 2023, at the age of 37, the defensive specialist brought his career to an end.

Although his time at Bayer 04 lasted just one season, Henrique, a young Brazilian defender, left a lasting impression.

Dear Henrique, I wish you all the best on your 40th birthday. Stay well and enjoy the celebrations.