Brazilian icon Roberto Carlos played across the globe – and after dusting off his boots one last time he turned out for a Sunday League side
Roberto Carlos has played across the globe for some famous sides – Real Madrid, Brazil, Inter Milan and Bull In The Barne United.
If you don’t recognise the latter, don’t worry. Shrewsbury and District Division One side Bull In The Barne United, won an eBay raffle to secure his services back in 2022.
The side paid just £5 to take part in the competition, and won a substitute appearance from the icon, who turned 52 earlier this week.
Carlos played for 11 years at Real from 1996 to 2007 and is considered one of the greatest left-backs in history. He retired in 2012 but returned in 2015 to play three matches in the Indian Super League.
Bull In The Barne have been together for three decades – but it will be a first that they will have a World Cup winner among their side (probably), when Carlos featured in a game in February 2022.
Manager Ed Speller, who also played as the club’s goalkeeper, told the Shropshire Star at the time: “One of my mates sent me a link to the raffle and I thought it would be a good laugh to enter, thinking nothing more of it, but when I had the email – it was just mad to be honest.
“Roberto Carlos is a legend and one of the top players to ever play the game, it was a proper ‘wow’ moment when we found out.
“It makes me speechless thinking about it actually happening. We’re all hoping he plays as many minutes as possible – the whole day will be insane.
“Everyone is buzzing about it and looking forward to getting the day going. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“We’re just an amateur pub team in Shropshire where everyone pays their own subs to pay, so it’s surreal to know he is coming to play with us.”
The seasoned pro has been out of the game since 2015 – but will is relishing the chance to put on his boots once more.
Carlos said: “I’m excited to play for Bull In The Barne in Shrewsbury, paying homage to when I nearly signed for Birmingham City in the 90s, which is very close by.
“I’ve heard that the team’s been down a number of players this season, so here’s hoping my training is enough to help them up their game and bring what Bull In The Barne’s fans want to see!”