Roberto de Assis Moreira, more commonly known simply as Assis, was born on January 10, 1971, in Porto Alegre, Brazil. A talented footballer in his own right, Assis’s career often takes a backseat in public perception to that of his world-famous younger brother, Ronaldinho. From emerging as a football prodigy to managing the career of one of football’s most charismatic talents, Assis’s journey intertwines personal tragedy, athletic prowess, and business acumen in a narrative that is as compelling as it is inspiring.
Assis grew up in the favela of Porto Alegre, surrounded by the challenges of poverty. His father, João Moreira, was a ship welder and a former footballer who played for Cruzeiro-RS, while his mother, Miguelina, worked as a cosmetics saleswoman before becoming a nurse. Life in the favela was marked by hardship, but football was a constant source of hope for the family. João’s love for the game, along with his work as a doorman at Grêmio on match days, ensured that football was an integral part of Assis’s upbringing.
The young Assis showed immense promise from a young age. By the time he was 16, his talents were undeniable, and he joined Grêmio’s youth setup. His ability on the field not only paved the way for a professional footballing career but also brought his family a degree of stability when Grêmio signed him to a professional contract. As part of the deal, the club provided a house in a wealthier neighborhood, marking a stark contrast to the family’s previous living conditions.
Life took a devastating turn for Assis on his 18th birthday in 1989. Upon returning home to celebrate, he discovered that his father had drowned in the family’s swimming pool. This heartbreaking incident forced Assis to step into a paternal role for his family, a responsibility he would carry throughout his life, particularly in guiding his younger brother Ronaldinho.
Despite this personal tragedy, Assis’s professional career gained momentum. Playing as an attacking midfielder, he established himself as a key player for Grêmio, helping the club secure three consecutive state championships between 1988 and 1990. His on-field performances caught the attention of international scouts, and in a dramatic twist early in his career, Torino attempted to poach the young Assis in what became known as the “Assis Kidnap.” The situation forced Grêmio to act quickly to secure their prodigious talent. However, by 1992, Assis moved to Europe, signing with Swiss club FC Sion.
At Sion, Assis continued to develop his skills and contributed significantly to the team’s success, helping them win the Swiss Cup in 1995. Although his time in Switzerland was marked by intermittent loan spells, including a successful stint at Sporting CP where he won the Portuguese Super Cup, he remained a vital figure for Sion. He returned to the club to play a crucial role in their 1997 Swiss championship-winning season.
After his successful tenure at Sion, Assis’s career took him to various countries. He had stints in Japan, Mexico, and France, representing clubs such as Montpelier HSC. These later years were characterized by shorter spells, but they also highlighted his versatility and adaptability as a player. His career on the pitch may not have reached the legendary heights of his younger brother, but it was nonetheless a respectable and eventful journey.
While Assis’s playing career was winding down, his influence off the pitch was growing. Having navigated the complexities of professional football himself, Assis was uniquely positioned to manage Ronaldinho’s career. From the outset, Assis took on a paternal role, offering guidance and ensuring that Ronaldinho remained focused on reaching his potential.
This role became particularly significant when Ronaldinho began making waves in Grêmio’s youth setup. Despite Grêmio’s resistance to transfer offers, Assis orchestrated his brother’s move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2001. Some saw this transfer as a form of revenge for Grêmio’s earlier decision to sell Assis to Sion. Regardless of the motivations, it marked the beginning of Ronaldinho’s meteoric rise to global stardom.
Assis’s reputation as a shrewd negotiator grew alongside Ronaldinho’s career. He was instrumental in securing lucrative deals, including Ronaldinho’s iconic Nike sponsorship, which saw him join the elite ranks of athletes associated with the Nike Tiempo line. Assis’s business savvy extended beyond contracts; he managed all aspects of Ronaldinho’s career, ensuring that his brother’s brand remained strong both on and off the pitch.
Assis’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. From his early days in Porto Alegre’s favelas to his successful career as a footballer and later as a manager, his journey reflects the challenges and rewards of life in professional football. Moreover, his ability to transition from player to manager and agent demonstrates his multifaceted talent.