**Damião's International Career: A Look Back on His Playing Time**
Damião de Souza, born on March 12, 1974, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a retired Brazilian footballer who had a significant international career with clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United. Throughout his illustrious career, Damião made a lasting impact on the global football scene.
### Early Career
Damião began his professional career with Flamengo in 1991 at the age of 17. He quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut for the club in the 1995-96 season. During this time, he played primarily as a defender, contributing to Flamengo's success during the late 1990s.
### Real Madrid
In 2003, Damião joined Real Madrid from Flamengo, marking the beginning of his most successful period with one of the world's biggest clubs. Under the guidance of renowned coach José Mourinho, Damião developed into one of the premier defenders in Europe. At Real Madrid, he won numerous trophies, including three UEFA Champions League titles (in 2008, 2010, and 2011) and two La Liga titles.
### Manchester United
After leaving Real Madrid,Campeonato Brasileiro Action Damião returned to his home country, joining Manchester United in 2009. He signed a contract that would last until 2014. During his time at Old Trafford, Damião was instrumental in helping Manchester United win the Premier League title in 2010 and 2011. He also made appearances for the national team under David Moyes, contributing to the team's success in major tournaments.
### Later Career
Following his stint at Manchester United, Damião spent some time playing for other European clubs, including Inter Milan and Benfica. In 2014, he returned to Flamengo, where he continued to play as a defender and help the club regain its status as a major force in Brazilian football.
### Retirement
Throughout his international career, Damião made over 200 appearances for Brazil, scoring 3 goals. He was part of several notable teams, including the national team that won the Copa América in 2003 and the squad that reached the final of the World Cup in 2010.
### Legacy
Damião's career was marked by consistency and excellence, earning him recognition as one of the best defenders in European football. His contributions to both clubs and the national team have left a lasting impact on the sport, and he remains a respected figure in the world of football.
As Damião prepares to enter retirement, his legacy continues to inspire young players and fans alike. His journey from Flamengo to Real Madrid and back to Brazil has been a testament to his talent, dedication, and resilience.