Athirson

Brazilian footballer (born 1977)

Athirson Mazzoli e Oliveira, (born 16 January 1977), better known as Athirson, is a Brazilian football coach and former player who played as a left back.

Athirson was born in Rio de Janeiro and played much of his early career at Flamengo. He was signed by Italian club Juventus in 2001, but was loaned to Flamengo in February 2002. His contract was terminated in October 2003.

In 2005 Athirson was signed by Bayer Leverkusen, but was released after two years, along with fellow Brazilian defender Roque Junior. He then signed a six months contract with Botafogo. but his contract was terminated on 4 October 2007, after just playing only seven times for the club. He signed a one year contract with Brasiliense on 22 February 2008, then signed for Portuguesa in September 2008. On 26 April 2009 the left back signed for Cruzeiro on a free transfer until December. He had received an offer from America RJ after his contract with Portuguesa expired on 31 December 2010. In 2011, he signed for Duque de Caxias to play at Campeonato Brasileiro Série B but was released during the competition. On 6 October 2011, he signed for Projecta, a Brazilian indoor soccer club based at Espírito Santo.

Athirson played five times for the Brazil national team, and was a member of the Brazil squad which finished in second place at the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup. He also made 14 appearances and scored two goals for the Brazilian U 23 side, which competed at the 2000 Summer Olympics. He was a member of the Brazil under 20 squad which won the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship.

Usually an attacking left back or wing back, Athirson could also play on the left wing, and as an attacking midfielder. He was useful there because of his accurate passing, long range striking ability, attacking drive, and articulate dribbling skills. His talent, playing style, nationality, and position led him to be compared to compatriot Roberto Carlos in his youth.

Athirson was appointed coach of Goytacaz in October 2018.