At 37, Willian makes a surprising return to Brazil with Grêmio, signing until 2026. After stints with Fulham, Olympiacos, Chelsea, Arsenal, Shakhtar, and Corinthians, the veteran playmaker aims to prove he still has the quality and leadership to shine.
At 37 years old and after several months without competitive football, Willian has officially returned to Brazil to continue his career with Grêmio.
The move marks another chapter in the long journey of one of the most technically gifted Brazilian playmakers of his generation. His decision comes after a period of uncertainty in which many thought he might hang up his boots, but instead he has chosen to extend his career in a country where he first made his name.
Willian’s comeback is significant for several reasons. In 2022, he made headlines when he left Corinthians under difficult circumstances, citing threats directed at him and his family, as well as broader concerns about safety. That episode cast doubt on whether he would ever feel comfortable returning to Brazilian football. Two years later, however, Willian has decided that the time is right to embrace the challenge once again, this time with the Porto Alegre giants, Grêmio.
The veteran midfielder arrives after brief but noteworthy stints in Europe. Last season, he split his time between Fulham in the English Premier League and Olympiacos in Greece. At Fulham, he showed flashes of the creativity and vision that once made him one of the Premier League’s most dangerous wingers, while at Olympiacos he added continental experience in a new environment. However, persistent fitness concerns and his advancing age raised questions about his future in the game.
By committing to a contract with Grêmio until the end of 2026, Willian has silenced speculation about retirement. The deal suggests that both player and club believe he still has the quality and determination to make a meaningful contribution. Grêmio, one of Brazil’s most historic clubs, is counting on Willian’s experience to guide a team that continues to blend promising young talents with seasoned veterans. His presence is expected to boost not only the team’s performance but also its profile, both domestically and in South American competitions such as the Copa Libertadores.
Over the course of his career, Willian has built a résumé that few Brazilian players can match. He first gained prominence at Corinthians before moving to Europe, where he played for Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine and later Anzhi Makhachkala in Russia. His big break came when Chelsea signed him in 2013. At Stamford Bridge, he became a fan favorite, known for his dribbling, set-piece ability, and tireless work rate. During his time in London, he won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and the Europa League, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s most reliable performers.
After seven successful years at Chelsea, he made the short move across London to Arsenal in 2020. Although his time at the Emirates was less impactful, he still contributed valuable experience to a transitioning squad. Returning to Brazil with Corinthians seemed like a natural step, but the off-field issues he faced forced an early departure, setting in motion the final stage of his career abroad with Fulham and Olympiacos.
Now, back in Brazil once more, Willian faces both expectation and pressure. Supporters of Grêmio will be eager to see if the veteran can roll back the years and provide the creativity and leadership the team needs. His ability to play in multiple attacking roles as a winger, playmaker, or second striker offers coach Renato Portaluppi tactical flexibility. Beyond the pitch, his leadership and professionalism are seen as invaluable assets for a squad with ambitions of competing at the top.
Willian’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and longevity. From winning titles in England to surviving the challenges of modern Brazilian football, he has constantly reinvented himself to remain relevant at the highest level. His decision to sign with Grêmio until 2026 ensures that fans will have the chance to see him in action for at least two more seasons, adding a new chapter to a career that already spans nearly two decades.
The return of a player of his stature is also a reminder of the pulling power of Brazilian clubs, who continue to attract experienced internationals back home in the latter stages of their careers. For Grêmio, the signing is not only a sporting decision but also a symbolic one: bringing in a player who embodies the blend of quality, international experience, and Brazilian flair that the club wants to showcase.
As Willian pulls on the Grêmio shirt for the first time, the focus will turn to how much he can still offer on the field. His debut will be eagerly awaited by fans, and his performance will be closely watched by those wondering if, at 37, he still has the legs to make a difference. If his career to date is any indication, underestimating Willian would be a mistake.
