From Vitoria to Fortaleza: David Luiz’s path and his impact on Chelsea

One of the most striking and iconic figures to ever pull on the famous blue shirt of Chelsea was defender David Luiz. The Brazilian became something of a cult figure at Stamford Bridge, not just because of his hair or his ability, but the passion that he always put into every game.

After making his debut for the club in February 2011 as a 23-year-old, Luiz played more than 200 times for Chelsea. A lot of time has gone by since then, and his two spells at the Bridge were just a part of a career that has seen him play for the likes of Benfica, PSG and Flamengo. With the announcement of a new club Fortaleza in January 2025, his playing days aren’t done yet.

Composed and Chaotic

David Luiz was strangely composed and chaotic, sometimes in equal measure. He was like an online slot machine, where the next spin could hit a jackpot, or be an absolute dud. But that’s the thrill of watching players like Luiz and indeed, playing slots at any of the top 10 casinos in the UK.

David Luiz was capable of sublime moments of defending ability, but then would suddenly go wandering up the pitch out of position and put pressure on his team. He was always an exciting maverick to watch, and Chelsea fans never knew what was coming next, a stunning goal or a hot-headed tackle.

From Brazil to Portugal

Born in São Paulo, Brazil, David Luiz first played for Vitoria in his home country before moving to Europe in 2007 when he joined Portuguese side Benfica. During his stay there, he helped the club win the 2011 Primeira Liga title. Then, bigger things were waiting for him.

Chelsea made a move for the defender at the cost of €25 million, and Luiz put pen to paper on a five-and-a-half-year contract. On his debut against Fulham, he gave away a penalty, but still won the Man of the Match award, which perfectly captures the kind of player that he was for the Blues.

First Chelsea Spell

During what would be his first spell with Chelsea, David Luiz quickly grew into a fan favourite. He would consistently churn out top performances as a quick, dynamic centre-half who liked the ball at his feet.

But he would prove to be a major threat in attack as well, and could curl in shots from direct free kicks, and power headers in from set pieces. Although not captain, he was a leader at the back and played a key role in Chelsea’s brilliant 2011/12 season, in which they won the FA Cup and earned Champions League Final success against Bayern Munich.

Move to Paris

Then Luiz had an interlude in his Chelsea career as he moved across the Channel to PSG in 2014. He hit the ground running there as well, winning the domestic treble in his first season. Hard to swallow for Chelsea fans that season, was him scoring against his former club as he helped PSG eliminate the Blues from the Champions League Round of 16.

Stamford Bridge Return

Luiz made it back to Stamford Bridge in August 2016, signing a three-year deal. He was welcomed back with open arms by fans and there was more silverware to come for him. In that first season back, David Luiz looked like he had never been away.

He was the same commanding figure and was often asked to do a job as a defensive midfielder as well. He ended up on the 2016/17 PFA Team of the Year for the season as he helped Chelsea claim the Premier League title. The following season, he would get his hands on the FA Cup, followed by his second Europa League title with the club in 2019.

Moving On

David Luiz left Chelsea at the end of the 2018/29 season, still held in high regard, even though he went to rivals Arsenal, where he spent around one and a half seasons, before heading back home to Brazil. Luiz joined Flamingo in 2021 and stuck with them for the next three seasons.

Latest Assignment

In mid-January, Luiz, who played more than 50 times for Brazil, signed with Fortaleza to remain in his home country, turning down other clubs who were keen on getting him. With much of his 14 years in European football spent at Chelsea, Blues fans forged a great relationship with him.

There just hasn’t been a centre-half at the club, or arguably the Premier League, since he left the English top flight. Luiz maybe wasn’t the greatest defender that the club has ever seen, but he certainly remains one of the most iconic.