Willian José is a Brazilian professional footballer who currently plays as a striker for Real Betis in La Liga. Known for his physical presence, aerial prowess, and finishing ability, Willian José has established himself as a consistent goal scorer throughout his career.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born on November 23, 1991, in Porto Calvo, Brazil, Willian José began his football journey in his homeland. He rose through the youth ranks of Grêmio Barueri before making his professional debut in 2009. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he earned a move to São Paulo, one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs.
European Journey: From Real Madrid to Real Sociedad
Willian José’s European adventure began in 2011 when he signed with Real Madrid, initially joining their reserve team, Real Madrid Castilla. While he showcased glimpses of his potential, he didn’t make a senior appearance for Los Blancos. This led to loan spells at various clubs, including Real Zaragoza and Las Palmas in Spain, where he began to make a name for himself in La Liga.
In 2016, Willian José joined Real Sociedad, initially on loan before making the move permanent. This proved to be a pivotal moment in his career. He flourished in San Sebastián, becoming the focal point of La Real’s attack and consistently finding the back of the net. His performances earned him recognition as one of La Liga’s most underrated strikers.
A New Challenge: Real Betis and Beyond
After a successful spell with Real Sociedad, Willian José sought a new challenge and signed with Real Betis in 2021. He brought his experience and goal-scoring instincts to Benito Villamarín, further solidifying his status as a reliable striker in Spanish football.
Playing Style and Strengths
Standing at 6’3″, Willian José is a physically imposing striker who excels in aerial duels and holding up the ball. His strength allows him to shield defenders and bring his teammates into play. Furthermore, he possesses a powerful shot and clinical finishing ability, making him a constant threat inside the penalty area.
Conclusion
Willian José’s journey from Brazil to becoming a respected striker in La Liga is a testament to his hard work, determination, and goal-scoring prowess. While he may not always grab the headlines, his consistency and importance to his teams have cemented his place as a notable figure in Spanish football.