Unveiling the latest football recruitment: Meet Igor Paixao, the swift and skillful Brazilian player now joining Olympique de Marseille, whose unique dribbling technique has roots in his native homeland.
In the world of football, Igor Paixao is making waves. The 25-year-old Brazilian forward, hailing from Macapá, the capital of Amapá, has caught the attention of many with his impressive performances in the Eredivisie and UEFA Champions League.
Born and raised in a quilombola community, a group of descendants of slaves who fled during the slavery period in Brazil, Paixao started his football journey at a local club before moving to Curitiba at the age of 14. His journey then led him to the Netherlands, where he joined Feyenoord Rotterdam in August 2022.
Paixao's impact at Feyenoord was immediate. In the 2023-2024 season, he became an undisputed starter, missing only three matches. His goal tally of 16 and 14 decisive assists have put him in contention to win the title of the best player of the previous Eredivisie season.
His performances did not go unnoticed in the Champions League either. He was named man of the match in a match against AC Milan, solidifying his status as a top contributor in goals and assists.
Paixao's success abroad has not only boosted his career but also shed light on his home state of Amapá. He believes that his achievements will open new doors for his community.
In a significant career move, Paixao has signed with Olympique de Marseille. The French club reportedly paid around €30 million (potentially rising to €35 million) for the attacking reinforcement, a club-record fee for Feyenoord.
Despite his club success, Paixao has yet to receive a call-up for the senior Brazilian national team. However, he is currently recognized as a Brazil U23 international, suggesting he is on the radar but has yet to establish himself in the senior national team setup.
Looking ahead, Paixao sees himself ending his career in Brazil, playing for Flamengo and then returning to Curitiba. His move to Marseille could enhance his chances of future call-ups to the senior Brazilian national team, giving him the opportunity to represent his country on the international stage.
References: [1] ESPN. (2025, August). Igor Paixao completes move to Marseille. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/football/transfers/story/4676168-igor-paixao-completes-move-to-marseille [2] BBC Sport. (2025, August). Igor Paixao signs for Marseille. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57227155 [3] Goal.com. (2025, August). Igor Paixao: The Brazilian star making waves in the Eredivisie. Retrieved from https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/igor-paixao-the-brazilian-star-making-waves-in-the-eredivisie/blt2c86f4e209e5a67c [5] UEFA.com. (2025, August). Igor Paixao: The Brazilian sensation lighting up the Champions League. Retrieved from https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/competitions/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2913252.html
- Igor Paixao's impressive performances in the Eredivisie and UEFA Champions League have established him as a top footballer, sparking interest in European-leagues, specifically the Premier League, due to his goal tally and assists.
- In the 2023-2024 season, Paixao's contribution to Feyenoord Rotterdam earned him the title of the best player of the Eredivisie season, demonstrating his quality in sports-analysis and football skills.
- Despite his rise in European football, Paixao hopes to end his career in Brazil, playing for Flamengo and returning to his hometown of Curitiba, while also aiming to secure a call-up for the senior Brazilian national team, further showcasing his passion for both sports and representing his country.
