Murillo Santiago Costa dos Santos, commonly known as Murillo, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Premier League club Nottingham Forest. Born on July 4, 2002, in São Paulo, Brazil, Murillo has rapidly ascended in the football world, earning recognition for his defensive prowess and contributions on the field.
Early Life and Education
Murillo’s early years were deeply influenced by his father, Fábio dos Santos, a fervent supporter of Corinthians. At the tender age of six, Murillo began playing futsal, an indoor variant of football, under his father’s guidance. This early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his future career. Tragically, when Murillo was just ten years old, his father passed away, a loss that profoundly affected him. Reflecting on this period, Murillo stated, “It was so sad to lose him, and I felt like I didn’t understand life at all back then.”
Following his father’s death, Murillo found solace in his faith and the unwavering support of his family. His mother, Dona Rosa, became his primary source of emotional strength, while his older brother assumed a paternal role, guiding and mentoring him. His grandparents also played a crucial part in his upbringing, instilling values of humility, determination, and resilience. These familial bonds and experiences shaped Murillo’s character, preparing him for the challenges of professional football.
Personal Life
Murillo’s personal life is characterized by a deep sense of faith and family. After his father’s passing, he turned to Christianity, finding purpose and meaning that helped him navigate the complexities of life and sport. His mother, Dona Rosa, remains a central figure in his life, often seen supporting him during matches and celebrating his achievements. Murillo frequently expresses gratitude for his family’s support, acknowledging their role in his personal and professional development.
Despite the demands of his football career, Murillo maintains a close relationship with his family. He often shares moments with them on social media, highlighting the importance of their support in his journey. His older brother, who also serves as his agent, has been instrumental in managing his career, ensuring that Murillo remains grounded and focused amidst the pressures of professional sports.
Family
Family has always been at the core of Murillo’s life. His father, Fábio dos Santos, was not only his first coach but also his biggest fan, introducing him to the world of football and nurturing his early passion for the game. The bond they shared over their love for Corinthians and the sport itself left an indelible mark on Murillo.
After his father’s untimely death, Murillo’s mother, Dona Rosa, took on the dual role of caregiver and motivator. Her unwavering belief in his potential provided Murillo with the confidence to pursue his dreams. His older brother stepped in as a mentor and guide, helping him navigate the challenges of adolescence and the competitive world of football. Together, his family created a support system that enabled Murillo to focus on his development, both as a player and as an individual.
Detailed Bio Table
| Full Name | Murillo Santiago Costa dos Santos |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 4, 2002 |
| Place of Birth | São Paulo, Brazil |
| Height | 1.84 m (6 ft 0 in) |
| Position | Centre-back |
| Current Club | Nottingham Forest |
| Jersey Number | 5 |
| Youth Career | São Caetano, ECUS, São Bernardo, União Barbarense, Corinthians |
| Senior Career | Corinthians (2022–2023), Nottingham Forest (2023–Present) |
| Parents | Father’s name not publicly disclosed; mother’s information not available |
| Net Worth (as of 2024) | Estimated at €15 million |
Career
Youth Career
Murillo’s football journey began in the youth academies of São Paulo. In 2013, he joined São Caetano, where he honed his skills and developed a deeper understanding of the game. He later moved to ECUS and São Bernardo, continuing his progression through the youth ranks. In 2019, Murillo joined the youth setup of Corinthians, a club that held a special place in his heart due to his father’s allegiance. His time at Corinthians’ youth academy was marked by significant development, both technically and tactically, preparing him for the challenges of professional football.
Professional Career
Corinthians
Murillo’s consistent performances in the youth teams earned him a promotion to Corinthians’ first team in January 2023. He made his professional debut on April 26, 2023, in a Copa do Brasil match against Remo, contributing to a 2–0 victory. Just days later, on April 29, he made his Série A debut in a match against Palmeiras. His composure and defensive capabilities quickly caught the attention of both fans and scouts, leading to interest from European clubs such as Napoli, Manchester City, and West Ham United.
Nottingham Forest
On August 31, 2023, Murillo signed a five-year contract with Premier League club Nottingham Forest for a reported fee of €12 million, with potential add-ons of €3 million. He made his debut for the club on October 1, 2023, against Brentford. Murillo’s impact was immediate; his defensive solidity and ability to read the game earned him the club’s Player of the Season award for the 2023–24 campaign. On November 10, 2024, he scored his first goal for Nottingham Forest in a match against Newcastle United. Recognizing his contributions, the club extended his contract in January 2025, securing his services until June 2029.
International Career
Murillo’s impressive club performances did not go unnoticed at the national level. In November 2024, he received his first call-up to the Brazil national team for the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Venezuela and Uruguay. Although he was an unused substitute in both matches, the call-up was a testament to his rising profile and potential to contribute to the national team in the future.
Murillo’s journey from the streets of São Paulo to the pitches of the Premier League is a testament to his resilience, talent, and the unwavering support of his family. His story serves as an inspiration to many young athletes, illustrating the power of perseverance and the importance of a strong support system in achieving one’s dreams
Physical Appearance
Standing at 1.84 meters (6 feet 0 inches) and weighing approximately 73 kilograms, Murillo possesses a commanding presence on the field. His physical attributes, combined with his agility and tactical awareness, make him a formidable defender. His athletic build and strength enable him to excel in aerial duels and one-on-one situations.
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Murillo’s net worth is estimated to be around €15 million. This valuation reflects his earnings from professional contracts, endorsements, and performance bonuses. His transfer to Nottingham Forest and subsequent performances have significantly contributed to his financial growth.
Latest News
As of January 21, 2025, Murillo Santiago Costa dos Santos has solidified his commitment to Nottingham Forest by signing a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2029. This decision underscores both the club’s confidence in his abilities and Murillo’s dedication to his role within the team. Since joining Nottingham Forest in August 2023, Murillo has become an integral part of the squad, earning accolades such as the Player of the Season for 2023–24. His consistent performances have not only endeared him to fans but have also established him as a cornerstone of the team’s defense. This contract extension reflects Murillo’s impressive contributions and the club’s ambition to build a formidable team around key players like him.
Murillo’s journey from his early days in São Paulo to becoming a key player in the Premier League exemplifies his dedication and talent. As he continues to develop, he is poised to achieve even greater heights in his football career.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username/Handle | Link |
|---|---|---|
| @murillosantiago40 | Instagram Profile | |
| Not available | N/A | |
| Not available | N/A |
Note: Murillo maintains an active presence on Instagram, where he shares insights into his professional career and personal life. Other official social media accounts are not publicly known.
FAQS
1. Who was Bartolomé Esteban Murillo?
Answer: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617-1682) was a renowned Spanish Baroque painter known for his religious works, portraits, and depictions of everyday life. He is considered one of the greatest painters of 17th-century Spain.
2. What is Murillo famous for?
Answer: Murillo is best known for his religious paintings, particularly those of the Virgin Mary, as well as his skill in portraying light and emotion. His works often include tender and serene depictions of biblical themes.
3. What is the style of Murillo’s artwork?
Answer: Murillo’s work is typically classified within the Baroque style, emphasizing dramatic light, rich color, and intense emotion. His art is characterized by a soft, almost idealized treatment of his subjects.
4. Where did Murillo live and work?
Answer: Murillo was born in Seville, Spain, where he spent most of his life. He worked extensively in the city, which became a hub for his artistic endeavors during the 17th century.
5. What are some of Murillo’s most famous paintings?
Answer: Some of his most famous works include The Immaculate Conception of the Escorial, The Holy Family, The Young Beggar, and The Two Trinities.
