Kelvin (26) of Brazil made his senior debut at the 2017 Four-Part EC Mutual Aid Festival. Kelvin gradually advanced to the third and second parts of Brazil. In 2022, he also experienced the first part of Brazil by wearing the Atlecicu Goianiensee uniform.
After the end of the 2023 season, Kelvin is taking on a new challenge. He chose to move to Ulsan HDFC, which aims to win its third consecutive K League 1 title. It was the first time since his debut as a pro soccer player that Kelvin has left Brazil.
Kelvin, who boasts fast dribbling and individual skills, received high expectations. However, Kelvin needed time to adapt to the new environment and performance. He only scored one goal in 10 matches in the first half of the K League 1 in the 2024 season. Kelvin did not have the upper hand in the competition to become the starting member of Ulsan, the defending champion of the K League 1.
Kelvin said, “This year is the first time I’ve left Brazil and lived abroad,” adding, “Ulsan welcomed me and helped me a lot like a Korean restaurant from the beginning.”
“Spending the first half of the K League 1 in the 2024 season in Ulsan, I was able to adapt to a new culture and league. In particular, I learned how to build good relationships with Korean players. I am very grateful to Ulsan,” he said.
Daejeon Hana Citizen reached out to Kelvin in the transfer market this summer. Kelvin also wanted to be recognized for his ability as he was guaranteed to play steadily.
Kelvin headed to Daejeon. On July 27, when he made his debut in Daejeon, he started in an away match with Daegu FC and scored his debut goal.
“Even in Daejeon, all the members welcomed me,” Kelvin said. “From the moment I came to Daejeon, I felt like I was part of this team.”
Kelvin continued, “Coach Hwang Sun-hong appreciated my ability. I was able to come to Daejeon because the coach wanted me. I was most happy that I was at the center of the team plan. I will do my best to help Daejeon win more points than it is now.”
For Kelvin, the first impression of the Daejeon team was very strong.
It was the first showdown of this season between Daejeon and Ulsan at Daejeon World Cup Stadium on April 2. In the match, Daejeon beat Ulsan 2-0.
Recalling the game, Kelvin said, “Even while training, I felt that Ulsan was a very strong team,” adding, “That Ulsan lost 0-2 away to Daejeon.” 안전놀이터
“I felt Daejeon is a very organized team. Daejeon fans’ enthusiastic cheering was also impressive. I want to leave a strong impression on the match. I will show you that I am a dedicated and competitive player. I know that what is needed most for the match is a troubleshooter. I want to score as many goals as possible. I will become a player who can demonstrate through goals.”
Daejeon will have a match against Suwon FC in round 26 of the K League 1 this season at Suwon Stadium on Aug. 10. The first match will be played after the break due to the 2024 Coupang Play series.
Will Kelvin be able to take the lead in escaping from the lowest place (12th) in Daejeon by scoring goals in two consecutive games.