Earlier this month, Brenner Souza da Silva became FC Cincinnati’s record signing when the Orange and Blue acquired the 21-year-old forward from São Paulo FC.
The Brazilian player who once trained with the Seleção – the Brazil National Team – before the last FIFA World Cup, arrives in Cincinnati as a Young Designated Player hoping to reignite FCC’s offense with clinical finishing, quality and a lit bit of flair.
In an exclusive interview with FCC’s Alex Stec, Brenner offered insight into his personality, his playing style and why he was named to the Forbes “30 Under 30” in Brazil.
“I’m very excited to be (in Cincinnati soon),” the striker said via a translator. “I’m a very fun guy, and I can’t wait to meet new people … I like to smile a lot, I’m always happy and this is the way I live my life.”
Before joining the Orange and Blue, Brenner was in the midst of a breakout campaign with São Paulo, scoring 21 goals in 39 games across all competitions. It’s a productive output, but even more impressive considering his consistency scoring in arguably the best soccer league in the Americas. Now, he’s hoping to continue that form with FCC in 2021.
“Last year was a very good year for me,” he said. “I was feeling very comfortable on the field and very well with my teammates. Everything was flowing really well and I hope I can keep going in the same flow in Cincinnati.”
Brenner said he was impressed with FC Cincinnati’s rabid support, which helped him in his decision process to find a new club. After listening to the club’s story and seeing pictures of team facilities, he said he was also amazed by the enthusiasm of Orange and Blue fans.
“I thought it was crazy how fanatic the fans were for such a new team,” the forward said. “I like to feel the adrenaline. That’s going to boost my confidence to give everything back to the fans.”
But the forward isn’t just trying to make an impression with Cincinnati and its fans. He’s also represented the Brazilian national team across multiple youth levels.
“I’ve been part of the national team since I was 15 years old,” he added. “I was also invited to training for one of the World Cup preparation (practices) with Neymar and all the big names. I’ve always been a fan of that and proving myself. The São Paulo youth academy, it’s such a big club in Brazil, I owe the club a lot for that and the club prepared me for this moment.”
Brenner is stepping into a big opportunity with FCC. Not only is he considered one of the most expensive signings in MLS history, but he joins a club that scored 11 goals in 2020. Now, he’s one of the league’s emerging talents – and potentially the player who unlocks the Cincinnati attack.
Join the Orange and Blue when they move into their new home. FC Cincinnati 2021 Season Tickets start at $20 per game and will be available for purchase beginning Wednesday, Feb. 24. Being a Season Ticket Member gives you the best opportunity to secure your place in history for our inaugural season at West End Stadium and catch new acquisition Brenner in action. For more information or to register your interest in 2021 season tickets, please visit https://www.fccincinnati.com/tickets/season-tickets.
