| One of the foundation Phoenix players, Daniel has helped put the club firmly in the minds of the public with his sublime Brazilian skills and his fun personality. He is adored by the fans – especially children. Daniel started his professional career at Madureira, he was signed by FC Fehérvár in April 2002. He then returned to Brazil for Veranópolis. In April 2003, he signed for FC Twente, and in summer 2003 returned to FC Fehérvár. In January 2004, he returned to Brazil again for Botafogo. In July 2005, he was signed on loan to Juventude. He then played for Guarani and Madureira. In July 2007, he was signed by Wellington Phoenix. Daniel made 17 appearances in his first season, 2007-08, scoring 4 goals including the Phoenix’s first ever A-League goal vs the Melbourne Victory.
Daniel was granted New Zealand citizenship on 2 December 2008. Daniel has aspirations to represent New Zealand and by the time of the next World Cup he would have become eligible to play for New Zealand. Daniel, a foundation player of the Phoenix, was the second player to reach 50 appearances for the Phoenix behind left-back Tony Lochhead. |