Roberto Carlos warns in News that he lost 99% of his football fortune

Former Brazil left‑back Roberto Carlos disclosed at the Portugal Football Summit that he has lost 99% of the wealth he amassed during his playing career, leaving his accounts virtually empty.

Financial collapse after a glittering career

Speaking alongside ex‑goalkeeper Júlio César, Carlos said the loss stemmed from a combination of poor advice from businessmen and disputes with family members. He added that the mismanagement wiped out virtually all of his earnings, forcing him to rebuild his life from scratch.

He recalled that after retiring he considered several roles within football – from coaching at a small club to becoming a sporting director or a fitness coach – but the financial turmoil hampered those ambitions.

Lessons for current players

"Do not make the mistakes I made," Carlos warned, urging athletes to seek proper guidance. He stressed that he now receives professional advice, something he lacked during the period of loss.

He also announced his intention to use his experience to mentor other players, stating, "What was done to me is what I want to do for others."

Reflections on the Galácticos era

During the interview, Carlos reminisced about his time at Real Madrid in the Galácticos period, describing the locker‑room atmosphere with legends such as Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo. "I felt like a boy among men with countless stories," he said, adding that observing players like Luís Figo and Iker Casillas taught him valuable lessons beyond the pitch.

He highlighted Ronaldo’s business acumen, noting the former striker’s role in boosting the value of clubs like Valladolid and Cruzeiro, and expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had while at the Spanish giants.

Future focus

While he did not disclose specific details of his current financial situation, Carlos affirmed that he has successfully restructured his life and is now dedicated to helping athletes avoid similar pitfalls. The summit, organised by various athlete‑advisory firms, provided a platform for his message.

"Tudo o que sofri, enquanto joguei, deixou-me praticamente a conta zerada," he reiterated, underscoring the depth of his hardship and the importance of proactive financial planning.