Arthur Melo

Arthur Henrique Ramos de Oliveira Melo, known as Arthur Melo, was born on August 12, 1996, in Goiânia, Brazil. He is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder. Arthur began his career with Grêmio, where he gained attention for his playing style similar to that of former Barcelona midfielders Xavi and Iniesta, known for his vision and possession-oriented play.

On March 11, 2018, FC Barcelona confirmed an agreement with Grêmio to transfer Arthur Melo to the Spanish club. The deal included an initial payment of €31 million, with €9 million in variables. Arthur's move to Barcelona marked a significant step in his career, fulfilling a dream of playing in Europe for one of the world's most prestigious clubs. His playing style and potential drew comparisons to Barcelona legends, earning him high expectations.

Arthur Melo officially joined Barcelona on July 9, 2018, signing a six-year contract. He was presented at the Camp Nou, and expectations were high for the Brazilian midfielder known for his technical skills and passing accuracy. Arthur was seen as a replacement for Andres Iniesta, who had recently left the club, and he quickly became an integral part of Barca's midfield.

On January 23, 2019, Arthur Melo scored his first goal for Barcelona in a Copa del Rey match against Sevilla. Although Barcelona lost the game 2-0, Arthur's goal was a milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to contribute not just in orchestrating play but also in scoring. Arthur's technique and vision made him an essential player, especially in games requiring controlled ball possession.

On June 29, 2020, Barcelona and Juventus reached an agreement for the transfer of Arthur Melo to the Italian club, with Juventus' Miralem Pjanic moving in the opposite direction. The deal was part of a swap arrangement, with Arthur valued at €72 million and Pjanic at €60 million. Arthur's transfer to Juventus was seen as a new chapter, giving him the opportunity to prove himself in Serie A.

Arthur Melo made his debut for Juventus on September 20, 2020, in a Serie A match against Sampdoria. Juventus won the match 3-0, and Arthur's performance was praised for his calmness and ability to control the game's tempo from midfield. This debut marked his entry into the Italian football scene, where the expectations were to showcase his talent in a new league and contribute significantly to Juventus' success.

On February 9, 2021, Arthur Melo suffered a leg injury that sidelined him for several weeks. The injury was diagnosed as a long-term bone calcification issue, affecting his left leg and causing significant discomfort. This setback was challenging for Arthur, impacting his ability to maintain consistent performances, and contributed to a period of adaptation difficulties at Juventus. His recovery was crucial for both his personal goals and the club's ambitions.

On December 8, 2022, Arthur Melo joined Liverpool Football Club on loan from Juventus. The move was intended to provide Liverpool with additional midfield options due to injuries in their squad. However, Arthur had a tough start with fitness issues and limited game time. His time at Liverpool was marked by challenges, including adapting to the Premier League's physical demands and recovering from earlier fitness setbacks.

On March 27, 2023, Arthur Melo underwent surgery to address issues related to his earlier injury problems. The procedure aimed to resolve his leg issues once and for all, providing a solution to recurring pain and mobility problems that hampered his playing time. The surgery was an essential step towards full recovery, and it was hoped to rejuvenate his playing career at both club and international levels.

On July 16, 2023, Grêmio announced the return of Arthur Melo, who started his professional career with the Brazilian club. The move was a significant homecoming for Arthur, symbolizing a fresh start after his stints in Europe. Returning to Brazil was seen as an opportunity for Arthur to rejuvenate his career, playing in familiar surroundings. His return was welcomed by fans eager to see him bring his experience back to the domestic league.