Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has disclosed that he lost 99 per cent of the wealth he accumulated during his football career following financial problems involving agents and a family member.
The former left-back, who helped Brazil win the 2002 FIFA World Cup, made the revelation while speaking at the Portugal Football Summit this week, explaining how he was forced to rebuild his finances after losing almost everything he had earned.
“I had problems with people who left me with zero money,” he said, according to Globo. “Because of agents and family issues, I lost 99 per cent of everything I had earned in football.
“I made mistakes, and that’s why I ask younger players not to make the same mistakes.
“On a Thursday, I went to bed at midnight, and on Friday, I received a bunch of papers I didn’t even know existed. That’s when I lost my entire history.”
Carlos, whose fortune was reportedly valued at about £133 million, also went through a divorce from his wife of 15 years, Mariana Luccon, in 2025. The separation was reportedly expected to involve a complicated financial settlement because of his substantial wealth.
The former footballer later denied reports claiming that he had been staying at Real Madrid’s training ground following the divorce. He said he remained at a private residence with support from his family and stated that his legal team was handling the matter.
Carlos also revealed that he relied on a friend while trying to recover financially after his losses.
“I always thought about my post-career,” he said. “It means building a legacy as a player and using your image.
“When I decided to stop playing football, I already had a sports director’s license and was working with many brands.”
Carlos retired from professional football in 2012 and currently works as an ambassador for Real Madrid. During his playing career, he represented several clubs, including Real Madrid and Anzhi Makhachkala, where he reportedly earned as much as £85,000 per week.
