Why Young Brazilian Footballers Keep Joining Shakhtar Donetsk Amid Ukraine Conflict

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has not stopped Shakhtar Donetsk from maintaining its reputation as a prime destination for young Brazilian football talent. Even with the city of Donetsk occupied and the club displaced, they have managed to continue their unique transfer strategy, which focuses on signing and developing Brazilian players.

War and Displacement

Though many consider the war in Ukraine to have started in 2022, the conflict has impacted Shakhtar since 2014 when violence erupted in their home region of Donbas. Their stadium, the Donbas Arena, was damaged by shelling, and the club has been forced to play home matches far from their original city, now training and hosting games in Kyiv, Lviv, Poland, and Germany.

A Long-Standing Brazilian Bond

The club’s owner, billionaire Rinat Akhmetov, was captivated by Brazil’s vibrant style of play, sparking a policy of recruiting young Brazilian talents that began over 20 years ago. The arrival of coach Mircea Lucescu in 2004 accelerated this trend, bringing in notable players like Elano and Jadson, and later stars such as Fernandinho and Willian, who became Premier League favorites.

• Notable Brazilian alumni: Fernandinho (sold to Manchester City for €40 million), Willian (Chelsea for €35 million), Luiz Adriano (record goal-scorer with 128 goals), Taison (record appearances: 299)

Record Number of Brazilians Today

Despite the ongoing conflict, Shakhtar recently welcomed their 50th Brazilian player, Flamengo's Ryan Roberto, signaling an average of over two signings per year since 2002. Alongside Bruninho, signed for €11 million, this highlights how the club remains a Brazilian enclave far from home.

"Brazilian players are part of our identity," says CEO Sergei Palkin. "We are not selling comfort, but their future."

Life on the Frontline

Playing football amid war is challenging. Players regularly hear air-raid sirens and sometimes take shelter during alerts. Brazilian winger Pedrinho describes the mental strain but also notes the support system within the team and community helps them cope.

Adapting the Business Model

Shakhtar has adapted its recruitment and development approach due to the war. Players now face shorter adaptation times, often playing immediately after signing. Transfers remain lucrative; winger Kevin was bought for €15 million and sold for nearly double within 19 months.

• Recent transfer fees: Kevin from Palmeiras for €15m, sold to Fulham for €40m
• David Neres sold for a €3 million profit despite no appearances

Challenges in the Current Market

The rise of similar South American talent pipelines across Europe and competition from financially powerful clubs like Chelsea and Manchester City makes it harder for Shakhtar to secure top Brazilian prospects. They are now focusing on younger players such as Bruninho, aiming to develop them before bigger clubs come calling.

Importance of European Competition

Maintaining Champions League qualification is vital for attracting talent and securing financial stability. Although the Ukrainian league's coefficient has fallen, Shakhtar secured direct entry for the 2026-27 season by winning the league and benefiting from UEFA’s allocation adjustments.

New Home Grounds and Commercial Opportunities

Due to the war, Shakhtar will host their Champions League home games at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge in London. This move taps into the large Ukrainian and Brazilian communities in the city and opens new revenue streams for the club.

"We want Ukrainians here to see our matches," explains CEO Palkin. "London is the capital of world football from many perspectives."

Surviving and Thriving Through Adaptation

Despite being in exile, Shakhtar reclaimed their domestic title in 2025-26 under coach Arda Turan, attracting a Turkish fanbase as well. Their resilience reflects an innovative spirit and a strong financial backing that helps them navigate difficult times.

A Brazilian Home Away From Home

Players like Pedrinho emphasize the importance of the club’s Brazilian community in easing adaptation to life in Ukraine. The presence of fellow countrymen, local support, and respect from Ukrainian teammates make it possible to focus on football despite the ongoing hardships.

"If it weren’t for the war, I’d say Shakhtar is one of the best clubs to start your career," Pedrinho says. "Here, young players get chances to play regularly and compete at high levels."

Through all the turmoil, Shakhtar Donetsk continues to be a launching pad for Brazilian talent seeking to reach Europe's top leagues, holding onto a unique identity and business model forged over two decades.