The Emotional Road That Shaped Murillo: From His Early Days

Murillo’s childhood was full of happy moments, tough times, and courage. He grew up in the busy city of São Paulo and started playing futsal when he was six. Futsal, a kind of soccer played indoors, quickly became something he loved. His dad, Fabio, a die-hard fan of the Corinthians football club, taught him about the game and cheered him on, always making him feel excited to play.

The Emotional Journey of Murillo: From Childhood Dreams to Stardom

The Emotional Journey of Murillo: From Childhood Dreams to Stardom. Image Credit: Instagram@murillosantiago40

But when Murillo was 10, something very sad happened… His dad passed away. Losing his dad at such a young age was very hard for Murillo. He says, “It was so sad to lose him, and I felt like I didn’t understand life at all back then.” Even though it hurt so much, this moment helped Murillo learn to be strong.

After his dad passed away, Murillo found hope and comfort in his faith. He discovered Jesus and learned that life has meaning and purpose. His family helped him a lot, too. His brother, who is also his agent, became like a second dad, always guiding and supporting him.

Murillo’s grandparents were there for him, showing him love and helping him grow into a strong person and a great player. Dona Rosa (Murillo’s mom) was his biggest cheerleader. She always stood by him and gave him love when he needed it the most. These experiences made him kind, determined, and ready to chase his dreams.

In addition, Murillo’s older brother helped a lot, too. He became a family leader and ensured his younger sibling could keep chasing his dream of being a great player. He worked hard to help Murillo get noticed and supported the family through their hard times.

In addition, Murillo’s grandparents were very helpful. They gave the family love and support, ensuring no one felt alone. This love and care helped the young athlete grow strong and follow his dreams, just like his dad would have wanted.

Murillo Santiago: From Father’s Loss to Football Triumph with Family by His Side

Murillo Santiago: From Father’s Loss to Football Triumph with Family by His Side. Sources: Instagram@murillosantiago40

Childhood Story:

For biography enthusiasts, he uses the name Murillo. Murillo Santiago Costa dos Santos first made his entrance on earth on the 4th of July, 2002, to his parents- his father, Fabio Dos Santos and his mother, Dona Costa Rosa, in Brazil.

The centre-back is the second child of the family with an older brother. As we take you on the footballer’s journey, we present Murillo’s father as his biggest inspiration, although he is not alive anymore. Here is the athlete’s mother, Dona Rosa, with his sibling.

Meet Murillo's mother, Dona Rosa and his older brother. Who do you think has his mom's facial?

Meet Murillo’s mother, Dona Rosa and his older brother. Who do you think has his mom’s face? Source: Instagram@rosa.costa.5205

Early Years Tale:

Murillo’s childhood was full of happy moments, tough times, and courage. He grew up in the busy city of São Paulo and started playing futsal when he was six. Futsal, a kind of soccer played indoors, quickly became something he loved. His dad, Fabio, a die-hard fan of the Corinthians, taught him about the game and cheered him on, always making him feel excited to play.

Behold Murillo's childhood photo

Behold Murillo’s childhood photo. Source: Instagram@murillosantiago40

The futsal game is also what iconic players like Omari Hutchinson (RW), Evanilson (CF), Philippe Coutinho, and Ruben Amorim began with in their childhood stage. But when Murillo was 10, something very sad happened—his dad passed away.

Losing his dad at such a young age was very hard for Murillo. He says, “It was so sad to lose him, and I felt like I didn’t understand life at all back then.” Even though it hurt so much, this moment helped Murillo learn to be strong.

After his dad passed away, Murillo found hope and comfort in his faith. He discovered Jesus and learned that life has meaning and purpose. His family helped him a lot, too. His brother, who is also his agent, became like a second dad, always guiding and supporting him.

Murillo’s grandparents were there for him, showing him love and helping him grow into a strong person and a great player. Dona Rosa (Murillo’s mom) was his biggest cheerleader. She always stood by him and gave him love when he needed it the most. These experiences made him kind, determined, and ready to chase his dreams.

Murillo Family Background:

When Murillo’s dad, Fabio, was alive, the family had enough money, and life felt safe. Fabio worked very hard to take care of them and made sure they had everything they needed. Murillo didn’t have to worry about money or food, so he could focus on playing futsal and having fun. Fabio made sure the family was happy and had a good life.

But when Murillo’s father passed away, everything became harder. The family didn’t have enough money anymore and had to figure out how to live without him.

Murillo’s mom, Dona Rosa, worked very hard to ensure the family needed what they needed. Even though things were tough, she made sure her child could keep playing futsal because she knew how much it meant to him. She was firm and never gave up, even when life was complicated.

Murillo’s older brother helped a lot, too. He became like a family leader and ensured Murillo could keep chasing his dream of being a great futsal player. He worked hard to help Murillo get noticed and supported the family through their hard times.

In addition, Murillo’s grandparents were very helpful. They gave the family love and support, ensuring no one felt alone. This love and care helped Murillo grow strong and follow his dreams, just like his dad would have wanted.

Murillo Family Origin:

The defensive maestro story begins in São Paulo, a big and busy city in Brazil. Research also proves that his parents and grandparents are also part of the town as well.

São Paulo is a big, busy city in Brazil and one of the most crowded places in the world. It is full of exciting things to see and do, with lots of museums and beautiful buildings. Its famous buildings include a vast, old church called the neo-Gothic Cathedral and the Martinelli skyscraper, built in 1929.

Here is Murillo's place of birth

Here is Murillo’s place of birth. Illustration: Google Maps

Many great Brazilian football players are part of the Premier League and come from different places in Brazil. Gabriel Jesus (CF), Antony, and Emerson Royal were all born in São Paulo, while Ederson Moraes is from Osasco, a city just 30 minutes away by car. Gabriel Martinelli was born in Guarulhos, which is also very close to São Paulo, about 30 minutes by car.

Murillo Early Football Years:

The rookie didn’t always have an easy time playing soccer. At first, he played as a forward, trying to score goals, but things didn’t always go his way. He had to change where he played on the field to fit into the teams at São Caetano, ECUS, and São Bernardo.

First, he moved to midfield and later switched to being a central defender. That last change was significant—it helped him become the strong player he is today. The newbie athlete started playing for São Caetano in 2013. After that, he played for ECUS and São Bernardo, learning and growing as a player.

The earl football years of the rookie in his career

The early football years of the rookie in his career. Image: Instagram@rosa.costa.5205

In 2019, Murillo joined the youth team of Corinthians, a big soccer club, after playing for a team called União Barbarense. He worked hard and got better every year. In January 2023, after playing really well for the under-20 team in a big tournament called the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, Murillo earned a spot on Corinthians’ first team.

Rise to Fame:

On 10th February 2023, Murillo signed a new deal with his team, keeping him there until the end of 2025. Just a few months later, on 26th April, he played his first big game with the main team. He came onto the field in the second half and helped his team win 2–0 against Remo in the Copa do Brasil.

The talented centre-back became a part of the senior team while Willian was leaving for Fulham City. Murillo’s first game in Brazil’s top league, Série A, happened on 29th April, 2023. He started the match against Palmeiras, but his team lost 2–1.

Even though it was a challenging game, Murillo quickly became one of the team’s best players. The coach, Vanderlei Luxemburgo, trusted him, and soon big teams like Napoli, Manchester City, and West Ham started noticing him.

Move to Nottingham Forest:

On 31st August 2023, Murillo joined Nottingham Forest, England’s Premier League team. The new Premier League baller joined the team with Anthony Elanga (RW), Nuno Tavares (LB), Chris Wood and Ibrahim Sangare.

He signed a five-year contract, and the team paid €12 million for him, with more money possibly added later. Murillo played his first game for Forest on 1st October 2023, against Brentford, about five weeks after joining.

Since then, Murillo has become one of Forest’s standout players, a performance that caught the attention of both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, who vied for his signature – via ESPN Soccer report. His impact was so significant that fans and coaches named him Forest’s Player of the Season for 2023–24. It’s not every day you come across a footballer like Murillo, someone whose journey has been shaped by early challenges. As they say, the rest is history.

Who is Murillo’s Wife:

Mabili Coladello Santiago was the one who filled the empty void that the death of Murillo’s father left in his life. A stroll to her Instagram page shows that she has a massive following of over thirty-four thousand fans. The beautiful wag could be an influencer or own her beauty or clotheslines. ‘

Mabili Coladello Santiago is the beautiful wife of the Brazilian athelte.

Mabili Coladello Santiago is the beautiful wife of the Brazilian athlete. Credit: Instagram@mabilicoladello

Research shows that Murillo’s girlfriend has three siblings with her parents. It is also demonstrated that Mabili is a graduate with a BSC degree. However, we do not know if they began as high school sweethearts or met after that stage. Nonetheless, they took it seriously to the next level, vowing to spend forever together.

Murillo and Mabili had a beautiful wedding full of elegance and charm. They exchanged rings under perfect lighting, surrounded by stunning decorations. The bride, who lives outside of Brazil, trusted the experts at Marriages Assessoria to handle everything, and they did a fantastic job. The wedding was made extra special thanks to a great team of suppliers who helped make the dream day come true.

One of the most joyous days of the centre back as he becomes a husband.

One of the most joyous days of the centre back as he becomes a husband. Visuals: Instagram@rodolfosantosfotografo

A week ago, a post on the centre back Instagram page showed that Murillo’s child is on the way. Mabili is pregnant, and the couple expect a sweet little princess to join the family. It is an interesting and emotional moment for the addition to the home.

Personal Life:

The São Paulo talent greatly advocates working hard to party hard. Murillo loves to travel to new places and see the world in his free time. He feels thankful for everything he’s achieved and the person he has become.

Moreover, Murillo’s mother and grandmother are not left out. The centre-back also loves spending time with his family, enjoying each moment, and thinking about new adventures and opportunities in the future.

The former Corinthians player loves to travel with those he loves.

The former Corinthians player loves to travel with those he loves. Credit: Instagram@mabilicoladello

Despite his success, the strong defender isn’t a show-off. However, Murillo drives a wagon and lives in a lovely condo. Murillo is a man who cares deeply about his family. After losing his father, he made sure to stay close to his family, showing them love and support.

The skilled backliner, Murillo, is a Cancer zodiac sign. Virgil van Dijk is a strong defender from the Netherlands who is known for being a leader on the field. Gareth Bale is a fast player from Wales who is excellent with the ball. Sergio Busquets is a brilliant midfielder from Spain who is really good at controlling the game. Patrick Vieira, a tough and strong former player from France and Alfredo Di Stéfano, a fantastic footballer from Argentina.

Murillo Family Life:

In spite of all the tears the Murillo family members have shed due to a considerable loss, they never let go of each other’s hands. With love and determination to put a smile on the faces of his household, they have all stuck together to overcome trying times. So, let’s get to know more about the household individuals.

About Murillo’s Father:

Fabio Dos Santos was very important to him when he was little. Growing up in São Paulo, Murillo started playing futsal (indoor soccer) at just six years old, with Fabio always there to cheer him on and help him. The Nottingham star’s father was a big fan of Corinthians, a soccer team that his youngest son later got to play for, making his dad’s dream come true.

A Rare photo of Fabio Dos Santos, Murillo's father during his days on earth

A Rare photo of Fabio Dos Santos, Murillo’s father, when he was alive.  Credit: Instagram@murillosantiago40

As earlier noted, when Murillo was only 10 years old, his dad passed away. Losing Fabio at such a young age was hard for the young child. He says it was a time when he didn’t know much about life and felt very lost without his dad.

Even though it was a tough time, Murillo found hope and strength in his faith. He learned about Jesus and realized that life has meaning, even when it feels hard. When Murillo scores a goal, he looks to the sky to remember and honour his dad. It’s his unique way of saying thank you to Fabio, who will always be a big part of his life.

About Murillo’s Mother:

When Fabio passed away, Dona Rosa had to take care of everything. Even though she was very sad, she worked hard to make sure Murillo and his brother had a good life. The skilled Brazilian’s mother became super strong, like a superhero for her family.

The mother of the Nottimgham Forest player

The mother of the Nottingham Forest player. Picture: Instagram@rosa.costa.5205

Dona Rosa did many jobs to earn money. She kept the house running and always made time to cheer Murillo on as he played futsal. Even when there wasn’t much money, she taught her kids to work hard and never give up.

As Murillo got better at football and became successful, he never forgot everything his mom did for him. He wanted to make her happy and say thank you for everything.

Now, Dona Rosa doesn’t have to work anymore. Murillo takes care of her so she can do what she always dreamed of, like travelling to beautiful places worldwide. She can relax and enjoy life because her son made it possible.

For Murillo, making his mom happy is the best reward. She was so strong when times were tough, and now he’s glad to see her smile and enjoy the life she deserves. Dona Rosa eagerly prepares to take on the role of grandmother to her son’s daughter.

About Murillo’s Brother:

After their father’s passing, Murillo’s older brother took on a pivotal role in the family, becoming a guiding presence for his younger sibling. He stepped into the shoes of a protector and mentor, providing emotional support and practical help. Acting as a father figure, he ensured that Murillo stayed on track with his dreams, offering advice and stability during challenging moments.

The brother of the athlete who stood as a Father when Fabio passed away.

The brother of the athlete who stood as a Father when Fabio passed away. Picture: Instagram@rosa.costa.5205

Beyond his role as a brother, he became Murillo’s agent, using his knowledge and determination to open doors for his budding football career. His dedication to Murillo’s success helped the family navigate through the challenges, reinforcing the importance of unity and support in overcoming life’s hardships.

About Murillo’s Grandparents:

Murillo Santiago’s grandmother was like a warm hug during hard times. When his dad passed away, they stepped in to give him lots of love and care, making sure he didn’t feel alone.

The loving grand mother of Murillo supports her sports child always.

The loving grandmother of Murillo always supports her sports child. Source: Instagram@rosa.costa.5205

They helped Murillo feel safe when life felt scary and confusing. They told him stories from their lives, teaching him important lessons like patience, working hard, and never giving up. These stories helped Murillo grow stronger and braver in his life and the futsal court.

Murillo’s grandparents were always there to listen when he felt sad. They told him it was okay to cry and reminded him to look forward to happy days ahead. Their kind words gave him the courage to keep trying.

Untold Facts:

This section gives us more details about Murillo’s biography.

Murillo Religion:

The South American standout loves God and keeps his faith very close to his heart. On Instagram, he shared a picture of himself praying on his knees with these words:

“I always keep the Lord in front of me. With Him by my side, I will not be afraid. My heart is happy, my soul is joyful, and my body is at peace.”

The centre back practicing his religion and faith at any possible opportunity.

The centre back practising his religion and faith at any possible opportunity. Images: Instagram@murillosantiago40

These words show how much Murillo trusts God to help him in every part of his life. He believes that God gives him strength and keeps him steady, whether on the soccer field or facing life’s challenges. This serves as real evidence that he is a Christian athlete.

Murillo FC25:

The reliable backline is excellent at defending in football. His defensive awareness (83) means he can see what the other team is trying to do and stop their plans. Murillo’s standing tackles (82) are strong and clean, and his sliding tackles (81) help him take the ball away in tricky situations.

Sofifa's stats about the Brazilian defender

Sofifa’s stats about the Brazilian defender

Murillo is also speedy! This is seen in his acceleration (92), which helps him start dashing, and his sprint speed (84), making him keep up with the fastest players. The Nottingham star’s reactions (85) are sharp, so he’s quick to change direction when the game shifts. While his agility (65) and balance (63) could improve, the Brazilian is still athletic and hard to beat.

Nevertheless, Murillo plays like some of the best defenders in the world. He’s similar to Rúben Dias from Manchester City. He also reminds people of Kalidou Koulibaly, who is strong and fast at stopping attacks. Murillo’s speed and quick thinking are like Dayot Upamecano from Bayern Munich, who uses his athletic skills to stop the other team.

Murillo’s Salary:

The Nottingham star currently earns £30,000 gross per week. In Corinthians club, the Brazilian centre-back was paid only £2409. A significant difference in his paycheck shows how the reward of hard work is being measured. The defensive maestro is the same amount as Danilo. In contrast, Jota Silva is being paid £5000 less.

End Note:

The rookie didn’t always have an easy time playing soccer. At first, he played as a forward, trying to score goals, but things didn’t always go his way. He had to change where he played on the field to fit into the teams at São Caetano, ECUS, and São Bernardo. The newbie athlete started playing for São Caetano in 2013. After that, he played for ECUS and São Bernardo, learning and growing as a player.

In 2019, Murillo joined the youth team of Corinthians, a big soccer club, after playing for a team called União Barbarense. He worked hard and got better every year. In January 2023, after playing really well for the under-20 team in a big tournament called the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, Murillo earned a spot on Corinthians’ first team.

Murillo signed a new deal with his team, keeping him there until the end of 2025. Just a few months later, on 26th April, he played his first big game with the main team. He came onto the field in the second half and helped his team win 2–0 against Remo in the Copa do Brasil.

The talented centre-back became a part of the senior team while Willian was leaving for Fulham City. Murillo’s first game in Brazil’s top league, Série A, happened on 29th April, 2023. He started the match against Palmeiras, but his team lost 2–1. Even though it was a challenging game, Murillo quickly became one of the team’s best players. The coach, Vanderlei Luxemburgo, trusted him, and soon big teams like Napoli, Manchester City, and West Ham started noticing him.

On 31st August 2023, Murillo joined Nottingham Forest, England’s Premier League team. The new Premier League baller signed a five-year contract, and the team paid €12 million for him, with more money possibly added later. Murillo played his first game for Forest on 1st October 2023, against Brentford, about five weeks after joining.

Gratitude:

Thank you for reading about Murillo Santiago’s life story. If you notice anything that seems off, feel free to let us know. We’d also love to hear your thoughts on Tomas Araujo and Nathan Collins, two fast-rising centre-backs in football. Please share your views via the comment session on Murillo, his career, and the story we’ve shared about him.

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