Born on 5 February 1986 in Guarabira, Brazil, he learned his trade in the youth system of EC Juventude, before joining their senior team in 2004. He made his official top-flight debut on 3 December 2006, starting in 5-3 loss to SC Corinthians. He got more opportunities to play in the following season, with 3 assists in 13 appearances. He was ready for his next step.

In 2007 he moved to Fortaleza EC and started attracting interest with his impressive performances. He featured in 30 games and scored 10 goals, catching the eye of Clube Atlético Paranaense’s staff, who moved swiftly to sign him – they were proven right. Márcio Azevedo continued improving and played top-level football in the following two seasons (a total of 53 matches).

He was unlucky though, as an injury kept him out of action and eventually deprived him of regular football. Botafogo however trusted in his undeniable quality and signed him on the first day of 2011.

He enjoyed an excellent season in 2011-12. He played in 33 matches, conjuring one goal and four assists in one of Brazil’s top teams and was ready for the challenge of European football.

He decided to cross the Atlantic Ocean in February 2013, his first stop being Metalist Kharkiv. He didn’t find it hard to adjust, as there were five more Brazilians at the ranks of the Ukrainian side. Although he didn’t participate much in his first season there, he made an impression and became regular in season 2013-14. He was a vital cog in Metalist’s fine run, contributing 33 matches and 1 assist.

His outstanding performances led Mircea Lucescu to give 4 million euros in order to lure the Brazilian to Shakhtar Donetsk. He lined up some excellent displays with the Ukrainian champions and participated in the UEFA Champions League, but a series of injuries didn’t allow him to become an undisputed regular. Having left his fitness problems behind, Azevedo is ready now for PAOK, a new challenge of his career.

Welcome Márcio!