In this chat with host Celso Oliveira and our reporter Tiago Brandão, Daniel Britto from the San Jose Earthquakes shares his Brazilian soccer journey and early experiences in the United States.
Get to know Daniel, the Brazilian goalkeeper from the San Jose Earthquakes
Daniel was born in Brazil and began his career at Internacional from Porto Alegre, one of South America’s most prominent clubs. He begins a new chapter at the San Jose Earthquakes, playing in Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Daniel talks us through his journey in this interview, sharing challenges, adaptations, and learnings through some tough times at Inter and, more recently, after going down with a knee injury earlier in the season for his new club in the US.
Personal life: a significant factor for Daniel in his decision to leave Brazil
One of the topics discussed is Daniel’s adaptation to life in the United States, especially in California, where he currently resides. He emphasizes that despite the initial difficulties of adapting to a new culture and language, he feels more comfortable and is learning English to communicate better with his teammates.
Comparing the football scenes in Brazil and the United States, Daniel highlights that while the style of play may have some differences, the competitiveness and effort are similar in both leagues.
Daniel: “They see you more like a ‘person’ here.”
He mentions the pressure from fans in Brazil is really a factor, and the difference in how players are viewed in the United States, where they are treated more like ordinary people, contributed to his decision to join the Quakes. Not only that, of course, but Daniel shares that the decision was motivated by a desire to seek new challenges after spending 12 years at his homegrown club in Brazil. He talks about how his family also played a significant role in his decision, considering the opportunity to provide a better life for his son in the United States.
Daniel feels more stars can join MLS to follow Messi’s steps
Daniel mentions the significance of playing against renowned players like Messi and how this can boost the league’s growth. It’s perfect for the league, he says, hoping more athletes could join to play against the best in the world. He notes that the presence of big stars, such as Messi and possibly others, only contributes to raising the league’s level and attracting more international attention.
You can watch the entire interview on YouTube or by clicking on the video above. The Earthquakes have been on a hiatus after a fast elimination from the Leagues Cup. They will return to the pitch against the Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada on Saturday, August 20th to resume the MLS regular season.
