Alex Telles

Alex Nicolao Telles is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a left-back for Botafogo in Brazil's Série A and the Brazil national team. Born on December 15, 1992, in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, Telles is widely recognized for his attacking runs, precise crosses, and set-piece ability. As of 2026, he is 33 years old and continues to bring experience and quality to every backline he joins.

Over his career, Telles has amassed over 300 club appearances across Brazil, Turkey, Italy, Portugal, and England. He has won league titles in Turkey and Portugal, and has been a consistent presence in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year. His international career with Brazil began in 2019, and he has since earned multiple caps. Known for his professionalism and work rate, Telles remains a respected figure in the football world. [edit]

Alex Telles grew up in Caxias do Sul, a city in southern Brazil known for its strong Italian heritage. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for football, playing on the streets and in local youth teams. His professional journey began at Juventude, a club in the lower divisions of Brazilian football. Telles's performances in the Série D caught the attention of Grêmio, one of Brazil's top clubs, leading to a transfer in 2013.

At Grêmio, Telles quickly established himself as a promising left-back. His attacking style and ability to deliver dangerous crosses made him stand out. In the same year, he was voted the best left-back in the Brazilian league, a remarkable achievement for a player so early in his career. This recognition set the stage for his move to Europe, where he would continue to develop and shine. [edit]

Telles's European adventure began in January 2014 when he signed with Galatasaray in Turkey. During his tenure, he won a league title, two Turkish Cups, and the Turkish Super Cup. A loan spell at Inter Milan in the 2015-16 season gave him a taste of Serie A, but it was his move to Porto in July 2016 that truly defined his career. Over nearly 200 appearances, Telles helped Porto secure two Primeira Liga titles, a Taça de Portugal, and a Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira. His consistent excellence earned him a spot in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year for three consecutive seasons.

In October 2020, Manchester United came calling, paying an initial €18 million (£15.4 million) for his services. Telles spent three seasons at Old Trafford, where he won the Goal of the Month for September 2021 with a stunning strike against Villarreal. After his time in England, he returned to Brazil, joining Botafogo in 2024. As of 2026, he is a key player for the club, even serving as captain on occasion. [edit]

Alex Telles is perceived as a modern full-back who loves to get forward and influence the attack. His crossing ability and set-piece delivery are his trademarks, making him a threat from wide areas. Fans appreciate his work rate and commitment on the pitch. Off the field, Telles is known for his stylish fashion sense and active presence on Instagram, where he engages with his followers. He is seen as a role model for young Brazilian footballers, showing that hard work and dedication can lead to success on the international stage. [edit]

Alex Telles stands as the 89th most famous person from Brazil, a standing confirmed by the iFANN Global Fame Rankings in their August 2026 cycle. This position reflects his sustained visibility across football's major stages, from the Premier League to the Saudi Pro League and back to the Brazilian Série A. While he does not command a singular, named legion of supporters like a pop icon, his audience is deeply woven into the fabric of his club affiliations and national duty. Fans of Botafogo, Porto, Manchester United, and the Seleção rally behind him not for a specific moniker, but for his consistent technical output and charismatic presence on the pitch.

The lore surrounding Telles extends beyond standard defensive duties, fueled by moments that have become legendary among those who follow his career. The story of his delicate chip finish against an opponent in the Copa Libertadores, often compared to the magic of Ronaldinho, remains a favorite retelling. Equally iconic is his long-range strike against Villarreal during his time at Old Trafford, which secured the club's Goal of the Month award and cemented his reputation for offensive flair. His journey also includes the high-profile narrative of joining Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, a move that captivated global audiences. Off the field, his reputation as a multi-instrumentalist who plays five instruments adds a unique layer to his public image, celebrated in official media features that highlight his musical talents alongside his athletic prowess.[edit]

Born in Caxias do Sul, Alex Telles holds Italian citizenship through his heritage yet has always chosen to represent Brazil on the international stage. He is renowned for his powerful left foot, frequently taking responsibility for free kicks and corners for his teams. A dedicated lover of Brazilian music, he regularly shares his curated playlists with followers on social media platforms. His physical persona is marked by a tattoo of a lion on his forearm, a symbol he associates with strength and courage. Beyond the stadium, Telles is committed to charitable causes, specifically supporting education projects for children in his home country.

His legacy includes several standout performances that fans still discuss today. During his stint at Botafogo, he scored a spectacular free-kick goal in the 'Clássico Vovô' rivalry match, showcasing his ability to deliver decisive moments in high-stakes games. Another defining chapter involved his transfer to Saudi Arabia in July 2023 to join Al-Nassr, a move heavily publicized as a reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo that shifted his career trajectory toward the Middle East. These events, combined with his musical versatility, create a multifaceted profile that resonates deeply with his supporters.[edit]

Alex Telles prefers to keep his family life private, but it is known that he comes from a supportive family in Caxias do Sul. His parents encouraged his football career from a young age, and he has a close relationship with his siblings. As of 2026, Telles is not publicly known to be married or have children. He often posts about his family on social media, showing his appreciation for their support throughout his career. [edit]

Alex Telles has been associated with several top clubs and players throughout his career. At Porto, he played alongside the likes of Pepe and Otávio, forming a strong defensive unit. At Manchester United, he was teammates with Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo, both fellow Portuguese speakers. Telles has also been linked with moves to Barcelona and Chelsea in the past, but he ultimately chose his path. His international career has seen him play alongside stars like Neymar and Alisson for Brazil. [edit]

Alex Telles has kept his romantic life largely out of the public eye. There have been no confirmed long-term relationships or marriages reported in the media. He tends to focus on his football career and maintains a low profile when it comes to personal matters. As of 2026, Telles is reportedly single, but he has not publicly commented on his relationship status. Fans respect his privacy, and he rarely shares details about his personal life on social media. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Alex Telles's net worth at $15 Million as of 2026. This valuation is derived from his extensive professional contracts, which have included substantial salaries during his tenure at prominent European clubs such as Manchester United and Porto. Reports indicate that while playing for Manchester United, he earned approximately £70,000 per week. In addition to his club earnings, Telles has secured endorsement deals with major sportswear brands and has made strategic investments in real estate within Brazil. His subsequent move to Botafogo in 2024 likely incorporated a significant signing bonus alongside performance-related incentives, further contributing to his financial portfolio.[edit]

Alex Telles has won several team honors and individual accolades throughout his career. He was voted the best left-back in the Brazilian league in 2013 and has been named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year three times. He also won the Goal of the Month award at Manchester United for his strike against Villarreal. His trophy cabinet includes league titles in Turkey and Portugal, as well as domestic cups. [edit]