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Adriano Leite Ribeiro

Adriano Leite Ribeiro, known simply as Adriano, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a striker.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Adriano Leite Ribeiro, known simply as Adriano, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a striker. He is best known for his spells with Inter Milan and the Brazil National Football Team, and he won major honours including the 2004 Copa América and the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup. He retired from professional football in 2016.

Early life and background

Adriano Leite Ribeiro was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 17 February 1982. He is commonly known by his first name, Adriano.

Club career

Adriano played for clubs in Brazil and Europe, with his most prominent spell at Inter Milan. He later returned to Brazilian football before ending his career in 2016.

International career

Adriano was a Brazilian international for a decade. He contributed to Brazil's wins at the 2004 Copa América and 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Recognition and legacy

Adriano was regarded as one of the world's top strikers in the mid-2000s. His career is often remembered for both his peak performance and later decline.

Key facts

  • Adriano played as a striker and was considered among the leading forwards of his era.
  • He represented Brazil at senior international level and made his debut in 2000.
  • He won the 2004 Copa América with Brazil and was the tournament's top scorer.
  • He won the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup with Brazil.
  • At club level, he is most closely associated with Inter Milan, where he won domestic honours.
  • He retired from professional football in 2016.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Adriano in football?
Adriano Leite Ribeiro is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a striker, best known for his time with Inter Milan and Brazil.
When was Adriano born?
He was born on 17 February 1982 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
What position did Adriano play?
He played as a striker.
What major international titles did Adriano win?
He won the 2004 Copa América and the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup with Brazil.
When did Adriano retire?
He retired from professional football in 2016.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adriano_(footballer,_born_February_1982)
    Supports: Identity as Adriano Leite Ribeiro; striker; birth date; career recognition.
  2. Kiddlehttps://kids.kiddle.co/Adriano_(footballer,_born_February_1982)
    Supports: Brazil debut, 2004 Copa América, 2005 Confederations Cup, retirement year.
  3. Transfermarkthttps://www.transfermarkt.us/adriano/profil/spieler/5876
    Supports: Full name, date and place of birth, position, retirement status.
  4. Goalhttps://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/adriano-spectacular-rise-fall-inter-emperor/bltfe82892f6369787e
    Supports: Inter Milan career and later retirement context.