In Rio de Janeiro, Penetallo shared his childhood with three brothers and their sausage dog, Mini Pene.
However, as Penetallo grew older, he became prone to bad decisions: Allegations of sexual assault, drunk driving charges, and armed robbery convictions painted a grim picture of his life. At 24 years old, Penetallo faced imprisonment for 9 years.
Penetallo would soonpromise each guard a portion of his former footballer salary to reach freedom.
Penetallo's life as a fugitive began. His criminal record made it impossible to find work. His bank account dwindled, drained by his vices—alcohol and gambling.
Penetallo soon found solace in street football. Every kick of the ball reminded him of the joy it once brought him. His skills on the pitch were undeniable; he had never lost his flair. The local tournaments offered him chances to play again.
An old man named Richarlison saw Penetallo's talent.Richarlison was a street football podcast host. He approached Penetallo and invited him for an interview. As they talked, Richarlison asked if Penetallo had ever considered a career in football. Penetallo replied, “Si.”
Weeks passed, and Penetallo continued to shine on the streets. Soon, a wealthy woman approached him and she offered him a contract with a small-sided club called "Sarina’s Garden.”
His future with the club was legendary…
However, as Penetallo grew older, he became prone to bad decisions: Allegations of sexual assault, drunk driving charges, and armed robbery convictions painted a grim picture of his life. At 24 years old, Penetallo faced imprisonment for 9 years.
Penetallo would soonpromise each guard a portion of his former footballer salary to reach freedom.
Penetallo's life as a fugitive began. His criminal record made it impossible to find work. His bank account dwindled, drained by his vices—alcohol and gambling.
Penetallo soon found solace in street football. Every kick of the ball reminded him of the joy it once brought him. His skills on the pitch were undeniable; he had never lost his flair. The local tournaments offered him chances to play again.
An old man named Richarlison saw Penetallo's talent.Richarlison was a street football podcast host. He approached Penetallo and invited him for an interview. As they talked, Richarlison asked if Penetallo had ever considered a career in football. Penetallo replied, “Si.”
Weeks passed, and Penetallo continued to shine on the streets. Soon, a wealthy woman approached him and she offered him a contract with a small-sided club called "Sarina’s Garden.”
His future with the club was legendary…
by Martin Reeves December 14, 2024