Fernando Bob
A Brazilian league champion with a elite distribution, Fernando Bob provided a veteran shield for the Minnesota United midfield during the final months of the 2018 season.
The vitals
- Position: Defensive midfielder
- Height/weight: 5’11”, 180 lbs
- Birthdate: Jan. 7, 1988
- Nationality: Brazil
- How he joined the Loons: Signed as a free agent on Aug. 21, 2018
The story so far
Fernando Bob arrived in Minnesota with a significant reputation, having spent the majority of his career with historic Brazilian clubs like Fluminense, Internacional, and Ponte Preta. He was a key member of the Fluminense squad that captured the 2010 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A title, and he brought that championship pedigree to a Loons side looking for stability in their second MLS season.
His time in the North was focused on the 2018 stretch run. He made seven starts for the club, recording 616 minutes of action and demonstrating a professional level of game management. Although he was a regular fixture in the lineup down the stretch, the club opted to rebuild the midfield for the move to Allianz Field in 2019, leading to his return to Brazil. He continued his career in the Rio de Janeiro state league with Boavista before retiring on Jan. 1, 2022.
What he brought to the pitch
- Physical presence: Standing 5’11” but possessing a sturdy frame, he was an enforcer in the holding role who was never afraid of a heavy tackle.
- Elite distribution: His left foot was his greatest weapon, allowing him to spray long-range passes with pinpoint accuracy to wide outlets.
- Tactical discipline: He possessed a high level of spatial awareness, often sitting deep to intercept passes and disrupt the opposition’s transition before it reached the center-backs.
- Veteran leadership: Having played in some of the most intense environments in South American football, he brought a calm and composed demeanor to a young MLS locker room.
