Welliton

{{for|the other Brazilian footballer|Welliton (footballer, born 2000)}}

{{Infobox football biography

| name = Welliton

| image = Welliton 6.jpg

| image_size = 250

| fullname = Welliton Soares de Morais

| height = 1.75m

| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1986|10|22}}

| birth_place = Conceição do Araguaia, Brazil

| currentclub =

| clubnumber =

| position = Forward

| youthyears1 = | youthclubs1 = Goiás

| years1 = 2005–2007 | caps1 = 53 | goals1 = 21 | clubs1 = Goiás

| years2 = 2005 | caps2 = 32 | goals2 = 10 | clubs2 = → Ituano (loan)

| years3 = 2007–2014 | caps3 = 104 | goals3 = 57 | clubs3 = Spartak Moscow

| years4 = 2013 | caps4 = 13 | goals4 = 2 | clubs4 = → Grêmio (loan)

| years5 = 2013 | caps5 = 15 | goals5 = 3 | clubs5 = → São Paulo (loan)

| years6 = 2014 | caps6 = 1 | goals6 = 0 | clubs6 = → Celta de Vigo (loan)

| years7 = 2014–2016 | caps7 = 51 | goals7 = 16 | clubs7 = Mersin İdmanyurdu

| years8 = 2016–2017 | caps8 = 28 | goals8 = 12 | clubs8 = Kayserispor

| years9 = 2017–2019 | caps9 = 45 | goals9 = 27 | clubs9 = Sharjah

| years10 = 2019–2020 | caps10 = 14 | goals10 = 9 | clubs10 = Al Wasl

| years11 = 2020–2021 | caps11 = 21 | goals11 = 13 | clubs11 = Sharjah

| years12 = 2021 | caps12 = 4 | goals12 = 1 | clubs12 = Goiás

| years13 = 2022 | caps13 = 13 | goals13 = 1 | clubs13 = Novorizontino

| pcupdate =

}}

Welliton Soares de Morais (born 22 October 1986), or simply Welliton, is a Brazilian former footballer who played as a forward. During his time at Spartak Moscow, Welliton was a very prolific scorer and won the Russian Premier League top scorer title in the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

Club career

=Career in Brazil=

Born in Conceição do Araguaia, Brazil, Welliton began his youth career at Bandeirante club before joining Goiás, where he started his professional football career.{{cite news|title=Веллитон взял номер Тихонова. Бразильский форвард "Спартака" будет играть под одиннадцатым номером|url=http://www.spartakmoskva.ru/stats/player/526/press/542.html|publisher=Spartak Moskva|language=ru|date=2 August 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}} From October 2005 to December 2005, Welliton was loaned out to Ituano, where he scored ten times in thirty–two appearances for the side.

In December 2005, Welliton signed his first professional contract with the club, keeping him until 2009.{{cite news|title=Вагнер Лав для "Спартака"|url=http://www.championat.com/football/article-12445.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=31 July 2007|access-date=14 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817202008/http://www.championat.com/football/article-12445.html|archive-date=17 August 2016|url-status=dead}} The following month, he made his debut for Goiás, coming on as a late substitute, in a 1–1 draw against C.D. Cuenca in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores.{{cite news|title=Goiás empata na estréia da Copa Libertadores|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/libertadores2006/interna/0,,OI851821-EI6358,00-Goias+empata+na+estreia+da+Copa+Libertadores.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=26 January 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} Welliton then scored his first goals in the Group Stage of the Copa Libertadores, in a 3–0 win over Newell's Old Boys.{{cite news|title=Classificado, Goiás quer vantagem na Libertadores|url=https://esportes.estadao.com.br/noticias/futebol,classificado-goias-quer-vantagem-na-libertadores,20060323p10177|publisher=Esporte Estadão|language=pt|date=22 March 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} It wasn't until on 16 April 2006 when he made his Goiás debut, starting the whole game, in a 0–0 draw against Santos.{{cite news|title=Corinthians, Flamengo y Palmeiras caen en debut|url=http://www.abc.com.py/730am/corinthians-flamengo-y-palmeiras-caen-en-debut-898316.html|publisher=ABC|language=pt|date=17 April 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} Welliton established himself in the first team at Goiás. A month later on 20 May 2006, Welliton scored his first league goal for the club, in a 3–2 win over Athletico Paranaense.{{cite news|title=Goiás vence Atlético-PR na estréia de Lopes|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2006/05/20/ult59u102232.jhtm|publisher=UOL Esporte|language=pt|date=20 May 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} Eight days later on 28 May 2006, he scored twice for the side, in a 2–1 win over São Caetano.{{cite news|title=Goiás vence o São Caetano no Serra Dourada|url=https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/folha/esporte/ult92u101974.shtml|publisher=Folha De S.Paulo|language=pt|date=28 May 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} Welliton scored three goals in three matches between 10 October 2006 and 28 October 2006.{{cite news|title=Goiás vence e afunda o Corinthians na zona de descenso|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2006/10/08/ult59u105235.jhtm|publisher=UOL Esporte|language=pt|date=10 October 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Santa Cruz perde para Goiás e agoniza na Série A|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2006/10/21/ult59u105611.jhtm|publisher=UOL Esporte|language=pt|date=21 October 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Cruzeiro vence Goiás e volta a lutar pela Libertadores|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2006/10/28/ult59u105802.jhtm|publisher=UOL Esporte|language=pt|date=28 October 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} In the last two league matches of the season, he scored three times against Ponte Preta and a brace against Internacional.{{cite news|title=Ponte perde para o Goiás e cai para a Série B|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2006/11/26/ult59u107866.jhtm|publisher=UOL Esporte|language=pt|date=26 November 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Goiás vence no Beira-Rio e estraga despedida do Inter|url=https://oglobo.globo.com/esportes/goias-vence-no-beira-rio-estraga-despedida-do-inter-4543344|publisher=O Globo Sport|language=pt|date=2 December 2006|access-date=26 May 2019}} At the end of the 2006 season, Welliton made thirty–eight appearances and scoring twelve times in all competitions.

In the 2007 season, Welliton scored his first goal of the season, in a 3–1 win over Moto Club in the first round of the Copa do Brasil.{{cite news|title=Goiás se classifica por antecipação na estréia de Pet|url=http://www.clicrbs.com.br/especial/rs/rbs30anos/19,0,1429626,|publisher=Clicrbs.com|language=pt|date=22 February 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}} He then scored four goals between 27 May 2007 and 10 June 2007, including a brace against Juventude.{{cite news|title=Goiás vence a primeira no Brasileiro: 3 a 1 no Juventude|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2007/05/27/ult59u121723.jhtm|publisher=Esporte UOL|language=pt|date=27 May 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Com reservas, Figueirense vira sobre Goiás no Brasileiro|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2007/06/02/ult59u122284.jhtm|publisher=Esporte UOL|language=pt|date=2 June 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Goiás vence Atlético-PR por 3 a 0 e deixa últimas colocações|url=https://esporte.uol.com.br/futebol/ultimas/2007/06/10/ult59u122894.jhtm|publisher=Esporte UOL|language=pt|date=10 June 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}} Welliton later added two more goals for the side, including a 1–0 win over Santos FC on 25 July 2007, which turns out to be his last appearance for the side.{{cite news|title=Goiás vence a quarta seguida e mantém América-RN na lanterna|url=https://oglobo.globo.com/esportes/goias-vence-quarta-seguida-mantem-america-rn-na-lanterna-4178855|publisher=Oglobo Globo|language=pt|date=30 June 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Goiás vence e breca a ascensão do Santos no Brasileirão|url=https://esportes.estadao.com.br/noticias/futebol,goias-vence-e-breca-a-ascensao-do-santos-no-brasileirao,24821|publisher=Esportes Estadao|language=pt|date=25 July 2007|access-date=26 May 2019}} By the time of his departure, he made thirteen times and scoring seven times for Goiás this season.

=Spartak Moscow=

File:Welliton 5.jpg in April 2010.]]

In July 2007, Welliton moved to Russian club Spartak Moscow, signing a five-year contract.{{cite news|title=Welliton de mudança para o futebol russo|url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/ESP/Noticia/Futebol/Goias/0,,MUL77746-4414,00-WELLITON+DE+MUDANCA+PARA+O+FUTEBOL+RUSSO.html|publisher=GloboEsporte|language=pt|date=26 July 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} he was previously linked with a move to Lokomotiv Moscow, Dynamo Kyiv and Dynamo Moscow.{{cite news|title=Tuttomercatoweb: "Локомотив" предлагает 7 млн евро за нападающего "Гойаса" (ВИДЕО)|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/3121771.html|publisher=Sports.ri|language=ru|date=7 July 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} Upon joining the club, Welliton was given a number eleven shirt for the side.

Welliton made his Spartak Moscow debut on 5 August 2007, in a 3–2 win over Tom Tomsk.{{cite news|title=Веллитон дебютировал в составе "Спартака"|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-54109-velliton-debjutiroval-v-sostave-spartaka.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=5 August 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} In the next match against Krylia Sovetov Samara, Welliton was a subject of racism by opposition fans, telling him to go home.{{cite web|url=http://www.spartak.cc/archives/43|title=Позор|publisher=FC Spartak Moscow|date=12 August 2007|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101006231554/http://www.spartak.cc/archives/43|archive-date=6 October 2010 |url-status=live}} Welliton was defended by Spartak Moscow and criticised the "racial abuse" in Russia as a disgrace.{{cite news|title=Руководство "Спартака": "Авторы грязного баннера позорят «Спартак"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/3264508.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=13 August 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} He then scored his first Spartak Moscow goal, in a 3–1 loss against Rubin Kazan on 25 August 2007.{{cite news|title=Станислав Черчесов: "Тихонова помнят не за один гол"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/3317505.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=25 August 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} Welliton suffered an injury during a match against CSKA Moscow, resulting in him being substituted. After the match it was reported that Welliton would be sidelined for about three weeks.{{cite news|title=Веллитон вернется в строй в конце сентября|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/3365508.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=5 September 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} He added three more goals later in the season, where he finished the half of the season at Spartak Moscow, making twelve appearances and scoring four times. For the first four months at the club, Welliton spoke out his life in Russia.{{cite news|title=Веллитон: с первого дня понял, что "Спартак" — моя команда|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-74402-velliton-s-pervogo-dnja-ponjal-chto-spartak-moja-komanda.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=6 December 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}}

To begin the 2008 season, Welliton scored six times in his first nine matches.{{cite web|url=http://www.sports.ru/tags/3121773.html?type=stat&s=1|title=2008 Player Statistics – Welliton|publisher=Sports.ru|date=11 May 2008|language=ru}} Former Russia midfielder Aleksandr Mostovoi heaped praise on the young striker after his performance in a 3–0 away win, stating "He has overcome all problems with passage into a new country. He is young, fast, technical, an ideal artist who acts along the entire front line of attack, not just along the flanks as this past season."{{cite web|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/4426422.html|script-title=ru:Александр Мостовой: "Абсолютно точно "Спартак" не станет чемпионом в этом году"|publisher=Sports.ru|date=1 April 2008|language=ru}} Unfortunately, his stellar start was cut short due to a muscle tear that forced him out of action for 10 months.{{cite web|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/6442914.html|script-title=ru:Веллитон: "После тренировки не испытываю никакого дискомфорта"|publisher=Sports.ru|date=16 December 2008|language=ru}}

File:Welliton IMG 3909.jpg

File:Welliton IMG 2890.jpg

After a successful return in 2009, Welliton made his return from training{{cite news|title=Веллитон приступил к тренировкам|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/7072116.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=23 February 2009|access-date=13 June 2016}} and played his first match for Spartak Moscow since returning from injury, in a 1–1 draw against Zenit Saint Petersburg. Three weeks later, Welliton then scored his first Spartak Moscow goal, in a 2–0 win over Spartak Nalchik.{{cite news|title=Веллитон: "Три бразильца в команде – это уже мафия"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/7542914.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=8 April 2009|access-date=13 June 2016}} By the time he scored eleven times in sixteen appearances, he scored his first career hat-trick on 8 August 2009 at Spartak Nalchik.{{cite web|url=http://www.sports.ru/stat/football/match/stat/18989.html|title=Match Statistics: 8 August 2009 Spartak Nalchik 2–4 Spartak Moscow|publisher=Sports.ru|date=8 August 2009|language=ru}} His excellent performance in his second season at Spartak Moscow also rewarded him with a long-term contract with Spartak Moscow.{{cite news|title=Веллитон продлил контракт со "Спартаком"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/21836022.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=31 July 2009|access-date=13 June 2016}} Later in the 2009 season, Welliton helped Spartak Moscow early to a prime position to qualify for the UEFA Champions League after finishing a dismal 8th place in 2008. He also finished the season as the league's top scorer for 2009 season, with 21 goals.{{cite news|title=Welliton recebe prêmio por artilharia no Campeonato Russo|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/internacional/welliton-recebe-premio-por-artilharia-no-campeonato-russo,b9688068ea2aa310VgnCLD200000bbcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=1 December 2009|access-date=26 May 2019}}

In the 2010 season, Welliton again became the top scorer, this time with 19 goals. He started he first half of the season well, scoring seven goals in ten appearances, including scoring a brace against Anzhi Makhachkala on 6 May 2010.{{cite news|title=Дубль Веллитона помог "Спартаку" разгромить "Анжи"|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-487734-dubl-vellitona-pomog-spartaku-razgromit-anzhi.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=6 May 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}} However, he was sidelined for three weeks after injuring his ligaments of the ankle joint of the left leg during a match against Metallurg Lipetsk in the fifth round of Russian Cup.{{cite news|title=Веллитон выбыл из строя на три-четыре недели|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-545349.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=14 July 2010|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819145652/http://www.championat.com/football/news-545349.html|archive-date=19 August 2014|url-status=dead}} After making his return in the field against CSKA Moscow,{{cite news|title=Россия - Премьер-Лига|url=http://www.championat.com/football/_russiapl/151/match/106777.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=1 August 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}} Welliton scored two consecutive hat-tricks. On 15 August he netted three goals in an away game against Russian rivals Lokomotiv Moscow, which ended 2–3. On 21 August 2010, he scored another hat-trick, this time against FC Tom Tomsk in a 4–2 win at home. The latter was scored just in 6 minutes and became the fastest hat-trick in the entire history of Russia.{{cite web|url=http://spartak.com/main/13/5084/|script-title=ru:ВЕЛЛИТОН СОТВОРИЛ САМЫЙ БЫСТРЫЙ ХЕТ-ТРИК В ИСТОРИИ "СПАРТАКА"|date=21 August 2010|publisher=FC Spartak Moscow|language=ru|access-date=25 August 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100823223031/http://www.spartak.com/main/13/5084/|archive-date=23 August 2010|url-status=dead}} Because of this, Welliton's performance attracted interest from clubs around Europe, including La Liga side RCD Mallorca.{{cite news|title=Sport.es: "Мальорка" претендует на Веллитона|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-578941.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=23 August 2010|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190524064640/https://www.championat.com/football/news-487734-dubl-vellitona-pomog-spartaku-razgromit-anzhi.html|archive-date=24 May 2019|url-status=dead}} Welliton was able to finish the season as the league's top scorer for 2010 for the second time running, with 19 goals. During the season, he scored six goals in the final seven matches to secure the scoring title and a berth in the 2010–11 UEFA Champions League group stage for Moscow, where he scored against Marseille{{cite news|title=Com gol de brasileiro, Olympique derrota Spartak na Rússia|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/internacional/liga-dos-campeoes/com-gol-de-brasileiro-olympique-derrota-spartak-na-russia,dc739329da49a310VgnCLD200000bbcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=23 November 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}} However, Welliton was sent-off in the last game of the group stage against Marseille when he involved in an incident with Souleymane Diawara.{{cite news|title=Ё-Матьё…|url=http://www.championat.com/football/article-71716.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=23 November 2010|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724003204/http://www.championat.com/football/article-71716.html|archive-date=24 July 2011|url-status=dead}} At the end of the season, Welliton was awarded the club's Player of the Year.{{cite news|title=Веллитон признан лучшим футболистом "Спартака" сезона-2010|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-688036-velliton-priznan-luchshim-futbolistom-spartaka-sezona-2010.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=22 December 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}}

File:Spartak-Volga (21).jpg

At the start of the 2011–12 season he suffered a series of injuries. It started off when he injured his heel in training.{{cite news|title=Мышалов: из-за проблем с пяткой с футболом ещё не заканчивали|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-739577.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=21 February 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816224305/http://www.championat.com/football/news-739577.html|archive-date=16 August 2016|url-status=dead}} After making his return, Welliton scored against Ajax in the return leg of last 16 of Europa League, with a 3–0 win{{cite news|title=Com belo gol de Alex, Spartak vence o Ajax na Holanda|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/internacional/liga-europa/com-belo-gol-de-alex-spartak-vence-o-ajax-na-holanda,d258e0c9b7caa310VgnCLD200000bbcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=10 March 2011|access-date=13 June 2016}} and then against Volga Nizhny Novgorod in the league.{{cite news|title=Веллитон начинает – "Спартак" выигрывает|url=http://www.championat.com/football/article-80992-velliton-nachinaet-spartak-vyigryvaet.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=21 March 2011|access-date=13 June 2016}} However, his return was short-lived when he injured his adductors in training.{{cite news|title=Веллитон выбыл из строя ориентировочно на семь дней|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-768146.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=25 March 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308025058/http://www.championat.com/football/news-768146.html|archive-date=8 March 2016|url-status=dead}} After making his return briefly, where at one point, he was captain during the match against Spartak Nalchik,{{cite news|title="Спартак" больше не последний|url=http://www.championat.com/football/article-83814.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=24 April 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110701034936/http://www.championat.com/football/article-83814.html|archive-date=1 July 2011|url-status=dead}} his return was short-lived once again when he suffered a hamstring injury during a match against CSKA Moscow, requiring operation.{{cite news|title=Веллитон должен вернуться в строй через две недели|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-802298.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=3 May 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816205347/http://www.championat.com/football/news-802298.html|archive-date=16 August 2016|url-status=dead}} Despite interest from Rubin Kazan{{cite news|title="Спартак" и "Рубин" начали переговоры по Веллитону и Ибсону|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-811564.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=14 May 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007012701/http://www.championat.com/football/news-811564.html|archive-date=7 October 2014|url-status=dead}} and Wolfsburg,{{cite news|title=Карпин подтвердил, что "Спартак" получил предложение по Веллитону|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-815206.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=18 May 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110528132423/http://www.championat.com/football/news-815206.html|archive-date=28 May 2011|url-status=dead}} Welliton remained at the club. After making his return, Welliton then scored four goals between 26 June 2011 and 8 July 2011 before adding another on 28 August 2011 against CSKA Moscow. But during the match, Welliton was involved in a collision with opposition goalkeeper's Igor Akinfeev, which resulted in Welliton being booked.{{cite news|title=Веллитон выйдет на поле в матче с ЦСКА в стартовом составе "Спартака"|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-910237-velliton-vyjdet-na-pole-v-matche-s-cska-v-startovom-sostave-spartaka.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=28 August 2011|access-date=13 June 2016}} Initially given six match ban,{{cite news|title=Веллитон дисквалифицирован на 6 матчей|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/121193087.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=7 September 2011|access-date=13 June 2016}} this was reduced to a three match via Spartak's appeal.{{cite news|title="Спартак" подал апелляцию на дисквалификацию Веллитона|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-922101-spartak-podal-apelljaciju-na-diskvalifikaciju-vellitona.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=9 September 2011|access-date=13 June 2016}} After returning from suspension, Welliton continued to suffer injuries when he hurt his back in late-October{{cite news|title=Веллитон вернётся в строй через неделю|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-970559.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=26 October 2011|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111028205956/http://www.championat.com/football/news-970559.html|archive-date=28 October 2011|url-status=dead}} and fractured his collarbone after colliding with CSKA Moscow's player Vasili Berezutski during a match on 19 March 2012, which saw him sidelined for the rest of the season.{{cite news|title=Веллитон выбыл из строя до конца сезона|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-1128448-velliton-vybyl-iz-stroja-do-konca-sezona.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=25 March 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}} Welliton ended his 2011–12 season with 21 appearances and scoring seven times.

In the 2012–13 season, Welliton made his return from injury, where he was included in the opening game of the season against Alania Vladikavkaz.{{cite news|title=Веллитон не попал в стартовый состав на матч с "Аланией"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/142143684.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=21 July 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}} But Welliton's injury problem haunted him once again when he injured his thigh during the match against Terek Grozny, sidelining him for weeks.{{cite news|title=Веллитон пропустит матчи с "Фенербахче" и "Локомотивом"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/142958102.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=26 August 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Веллитон получил травму в матче с "Тереком"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/142933861.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=25 August 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}} Welliton was left out of the squad and eventually fell out with Unai Emery due to lack of effort in training and performance.{{cite news|title="Спартак" собирается продать Веллитона зимой|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/144544923.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=7 November 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}} As a result, Welliton attracted further interest from Metalist Kharkiv,{{cite news|title=Веллитон перейдет в "Металлист"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/146380122.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=27 January 2013|access-date=13 June 2016}} Rubin Kazan,{{cite news|title=Агент Веллитона: "Был интерес «Анжи", но больше всего мой клиент хотел перейти в "Рубин"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/144935113.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=23 November 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}} Flamengo{{cite news|title=Веллитон может перейти во "Фламенго"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/146101085.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=16 January 2013|access-date=13 June 2016}} and Fenerbahçe.{{cite news|title="Фенербахче" не намерен подписывать Веллитона|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/145039874.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=27 November 2012|access-date=13 June 2016}}

During his seven years career at Spartak Moscow, Welliton made 132 appearances and scored 61 times.

=Loan spells=

On 6 February 2013, Welliton was loaned to Brazilian club Grêmio.{{cite web|url=http://en.rsport.ru/football/20130206/643706786.html|title=Spartak to Loan Welliton Back to Brazil|date=6 February 2013|publisher=R-Sport|access-date=6 February 2013}} Welliton made his Grêmio debut on 14 February 2013, coming on as a substitute for Eduardo Vargas in the 73rd minute, in a 2–1 loss against Huachipato in group stage of Copa Libertadores.{{cite news|title=Grêmio patina na chuva e perde pela 1ª vez na Arena: 2 a 1 para Huachipato|url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/jogo/libertadores-2013/14-02-2013/gremio-huachipato.html|publisher=Global Esportes|language=pt|date=14 February 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}} On 26 May 2013, Welliton made his league debut in the opening game of the season, coming on as a substitute for Hernán Barcos, in a 2–0 win over Náutico.{{cite news|title=Grêmio cumpre promessa, joga bem e vence Náutico pelo Brasileirão|url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/jogo/brasileirao2013/26-05-2013/gremio-nautico.html|publisher=Global Esporte|language=pt|date=26 May 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}} However, Welliton made only ten appearances in all competitions, as he struggled to score.

He moved to São Paulo later. With a few players available on transfer market, Paulo Autuori praised Welliton as a new hiring for his club. According to Autuori, Welliton "has the profile what we are looking for, with balance and presence to score goals. He can play as a winger or a center forward."{{cite news|title=Autuori vê poucas opções no mercado e elogia chegada de Welliton|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/sao-paulo/autuori-ve-poucas-opcoes-no-mercado-e-elogia-chegada-de-welliton,cb72d4b1997a0410VgnCLD2000000dc6eb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=23 August 2013}} To carry out the transfer, São Paulo managed to reach a complex agreement with Grêmio. It involved some benefits for Grêmio on Rhodolfo's loan contract,{{cite news|title=Grêmio chega a acordo com São Paulo por transferência de Welliton|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/sao-paulo/gremio-chega-a-acordo-com-sao-paulo-por-transferencia-de-welliton,f99521e4b41b0410VgnVCM4000009bcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=24 August 2013}} and stipulated that the side from São Paulo would pay half of his salary (R$200,000), the rest went to the side from Porto Alegre.{{cite news|title=Grêmio chega a acordo com São Paulo por transferência de Welliton|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/sao-paulo/gremio-chega-a-acordo-com-sao-paulo-por-transferencia-de-welliton,f99521e4b41b0410VgnVCM4000009bcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=24 August 2013|access-date=13 June 2016}} After making his debut as a substitute against Botafogo on 1 September 2013, Welliton scored his first goal two weeks later on 19 September 2013, in a 1–0 win over Atlético Mineiro.{{cite news|title=Embalado, São Paulo vence Atlético-MG e mantém 100% com Muricy|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/sao-paulo/embalado-sao-paulo-vence-atletico-mg-e-mantem-100-com-muricy,ce4060dbb1431410VgnVCM5000009ccceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=19 September 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}} Welliton later added two more goals later in the season against Náutico{{cite news|title=São Paulo vence o Náutico com golaço de Ganso e respira no Brasileirão|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/sao-paulo-vence-o-nautico-com-golaco-de-ganso-e-respira-no-brasileirao,e3b917d0ad3c1410VgnCLD2000000dc6eb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=16 October 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}} and Fluminense.{{cite news|title=Fluminense bate São Paulo reserva de virada e se afasta da degola|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/fluminense/fluminense-bate-sao-paulo-reserva-de-virada-e-se-afasta-da-degola,04568a250f852410VgnCLD2000000dc6eb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=17 November 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}} After making 19 appearances and scoring four times, the club was keen to sign him permanently, but eventually decided against over the price tag.{{cite news|title=Com Aloísio de saída, São Paulo tenta segurar Welliton no elenco|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/sao-paulo/com-aloisio-de-saida-sao-paulo-tenta-segurar-welliton-no-elenco,3a5c190631633410VgnCLD2000000ec6eb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=29 December 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}}

On 31 January 2014 he was loaned to Celta de Vigo in La Liga until the end of the season.{{cite news|title=Welliton, un acreditado goleador para la delantera celeste|url=http://www.celtavigo.net/es/primer-equipo/noticias/7322-welliton-un-acreditado-goleador-para-la-delantera-celeste|access-date=31 January 2014|newspaper=Celta de Vigo|date=31 January 2014}} In May, Welliton was given a maximum fine by the club for a drink-driving offence.{{cite news|title=Detenido Welliton por quintuplicar la tasa de alcohol|url=http://futbol.as.com/futbol/2014/05/05/primera/1399293921_877266.html|publisher=AS.com|language=es|date=5 May 2014|access-date=13 June 2016}} His time at Celta Viga was forgettable, as Welliton made only one appearance, coming on as a substitute in the 87th minute against Elche.[http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/99451/elche-1-0-celta-vigo-carles-gil-claims-elche-the-points-from-the-bench/ Elche 1–0 Celta Vigo: Carles Gil claims Elche the points from the bench]; Inside Spanish Football, 1 March 2014 To make things worse, Welliton suffered a hamstring injury that sidelined him rest of the season.{{cite news|title=Welliton se lesiona y está descartado para Almería|url=http://futbol.as.com/futbol/2014/04/18/primera/1397841270_512619.html|publisher=AS.com|language=es|date=18 April 2014|access-date=13 June 2016}}

=Mersin İdmanyurdu=

On 20 August 2014, Welliton moved to the Turkish side Mersin İdmanyurdu, signing a two-year contract.{{cite news|title=Braziliaan Welliton tekent in Turkije|url=http://www.goal.com/nl/news/786/transfers/2014/08/20/4978106/braziliaan-welliton-tekent-in-turkije|publisher=Goal.com|language=tr|date=20 August 2014|access-date=14 June 2016}} Spartak Moscow reportedly received around €1 million from the transfer.{{cite news|script-title=ru:«Спартак» заработает на трансфере Веллитона порядка € 1 млн|url=http://www.championat.com/football/news-1907174-spartak-zarabotaet-na-transfere-vellitona-porjadka--1-mln.html|access-date=21 August 2014|newspaper=Championat|date=20 August 2014|language=ru}}

After being on the bench for the first two matches, Welliton made his Mersin İdmanyurdu debut as a substitute in a 2–0 win over Çaykur Rizespor on 20 September 2014.{{cite news|title=Mersin İdman Yurdu siftah yaptı: 2-0|url=http://www.goal.com/tr/match/mersin-idmanyurdu-vs-%C3%A7aykur-rizespor/1778459/report|publisher=Goal.com|language=tr|date=20 September 2014|access-date=14 June 2016}} Four days later, Welliton scored his first goal for the club, in the second round of Turkish Cup, in a 3–0 win over Kemer Tekirovaspor.{{cite news|title=Tarsus'ta Mersin'den rahat galibiyet|url=http://www.hurhaber.com/tarsus-ta-mersin-den-rahat-galibiyet/haber-660720|publisher=Hur Haber|language=tr|date=24 September 2014|access-date=14 June 2016}} On 8 November 2014, Welliton scored his first league goal for the club, in a 2–1 win over Balıkesirspor,{{cite news|title=Welliton yukselisini surduruyor|url=http://www.spor33.com/haber-34337-Welliton-yukselisini-surduruyor.html|publisher=Spor33.com|language=tr|date=8 November 2014|access-date=14 June 2016}} followed by his second in the next game two weeks later against Akhisar Belediyespor.{{cite news|title=Akhisar - Mersin İdman Yurdu: 1-1|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/akhisar-mersin-idman-yurdu-1-1-akhisar-belediyespor-mersin-idmanyurdu-1973438-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=22 November 2014|access-date=14 June 2016}} Welliton then scored his first hat-trick for the club and provided two assists in a 6–2 win over Kasımpaşa.{{cite news|title=Mersin İdman Yurdu - Kasımpaşa: 6-2|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/mersin-idman-yurdu-kasimpasa-6-2-mersin-idmanyurdu-kasimpasa-a-s--2010435-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=8 February 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} Towards the end of the season, Welliton later added four more goals against Balikesirspor,{{cite news|title=Balıkesirspor - Mersin İ.Y: 1-3|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/balikesirspor-mersin-i-y-1-3-mersin-idmanyurdu-balikesirspor-2038919-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=4 April 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} Konyaspor,{{cite news|title=Mersin İdman Yurdu-Torku Konyaspor: 3-1|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/mersin-idman-yurdu-torku-mersin-idmanyurdu-torku-konyaspor-2053095-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=2 May 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} Gençlerbirliği{{cite news|title=Gençlerbirliği - Mersin İdman Yurdu: 1-2|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/baskentte-muhis-donus--genclerbirligi-mersin-idmanyurdu-2063076-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=22 May 2013|access-date=14 June 2016}} and İstanbul Başakşehir.{{cite news|title=Mersin İdmanyurdu - İstanbul Başakşehi: 2 - 2|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/basaksehir-avrupa-biletini-kapti--basaksehir-mersin-idmanyurdu-2066923-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=30 May 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} In his first season at Mersin İdmanyurdu, Welliton made 34 appearances and scored 13 goals in all competitions.

In the 2015–16 season, Welliton scored two goals in two consecutive matches against Kayserispor{{cite news|title=Kayserispor Mersin'i deplasmanda yıktı: 1-2|url=http://www.goal.com/tr/match/mersin-idmanyurdu-vs-kayserispor/2074353/report|publisher=Goal.com|language=tr|date=29 August 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} and Galatasaray{{cite news|title=Galatasaray, Mersin İdman Yurdu ile 1-1 Berabere Kaldı|url=http://www.haberler.com/galatasaray-mersin-idman-yurdu-ile-1-1-berabere-7686749-haberi/|publisher=Haberler.com|language=tr|date=12 September 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} despite the clu's poor start following three losses at the start of the season. Welliton later scored two goals in two consecutive matches for the second time against Eskişehirspor{{cite news|title=Eskişehirspor - Mersin İdman Yurdu: 3-2|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/eskisehirspor-dan-muthis-galibiyet--eskisehirspor-mersin-idmanyurdu-2155279-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=28 November 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} and Çaykur Rizespor.{{cite news|title=Mersin İdman Yurdu - Çaykur Rizespor: 3-0|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/mersin-idman-yurdu-gol-yagdirdi--mersin-idmanyurdu-caykur-rizespor-2159387-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=6 December 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}} While he scored six goals in 21 appearances, Welliton's injury problem contributed to the club's relegation.{{cite news|title=Mersinde Welliton soku|url=http://www.spor33.com/haber-36647-Mersinde-Welliton-soku.html|publisher=Spor33.com|language=tr|date=18 September 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Mersin İdman Yurdu, Fenerbahçe'yi gözüne kestirdi|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/mersin-idman-yurdu-fenerbahce-yi-mersin-idmanyurdu-2149786-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=18 November 2015|access-date=14 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Kaloğlu: Her şey bitmedi|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/kaloglu-her-sey-bitmedi-mersin-idmanyurdu-2198171-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=22 January 2016|access-date=14 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=İnsana acı veriyor|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/-insana-aci-veriyor--galatasaray-mersin-idmanyurdu-2193994-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=13 February 2016|access-date=14 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Mersinde Welliton sok|url=http://www.spor33.com/haber-37329-Mersinde-Welliton-soku.html|publisher=Spor33.com|language=tr|date=23 April 2016|access-date=14 June 2016}}

Following Mersin İdmanyurdu relegation to the TFF First League, Welliton's future was in doubt, as his contract was due to expire on 30 June 2016.{{cite news|title=Jogadores ficam livres e podem reforçar seu time;|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/lance/veja-jogadores-que-ficam-livres-e-podem-reforcar-clubes-no-brasileirao,9a39c883aa2f7e82b20fe14f970501ecmop5k67r.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=31 May 2016|access-date=14 June 2016}}

=Kayserispor=

On 1 July 2016, Welliton signed a two-year contract with Kayserispor.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor Welliton'u transfer etti;|url=http://www.yenisafak.com/kayserispor-wellitonu-transfer-etti-h-2489570|publisher=Yeni Şafak|language=tr|date=1 July 2016|access-date=8 July 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Kayserispor'a Welliton'dan 2 yıllık imza|url=http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/kayserispora-wellitondan-2-yillik-imza-37304092|publisher=Hurriyet|language=tr|date=1 July 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}}

Welliton made his Kayserispor debut in the opening game of the season, starting the whole game, in a 2–0 loss against Akhisar Belediyespor.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor - Akhisar Belediyespor: 0-2|url=http://ww2.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/kayserispor-akhisar-belediyespor-0-2-2298807|publisher=Milliyet.com|language=tr|date=21 August 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}} He then scored three goals in the next two matches against Fenerbahçe (twice) and Galatasaray.{{cite news|title=Fenerbahçe izdirap icinde|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/fenerbahce-izdirap-icinde-fenerbahce-kayserispor-2302661-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=29 August 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=3 puana ara!|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2016/09/11/3-puana-ara|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=11 September 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}} His goal scoring form continued, adding three more goals to his tally between 20 September 2016 and 1 October 2016.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor uzatmada tur atladı|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2016/09/20/kayserispor-uzatmada-tur-atladi|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=20 September 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Kayserispor'un 8 maclik hasreti sona erdi|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/kayserispor-un-8-maclik-hasreti-kayserispor-2316862-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=26 September 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Welliton Sezona Hizli Basladi Kayserispor|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/welliton-sezona-hizli-basladi-kayserispor-2317488-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=27 September 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}} Since joining the club, Welliton became a first team regular for the side throughout the first half of the season.{{cite news|title=Besiktas'ta Welliton alarmi!|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/besiktas-ta-welliton-alarmi--besiktas-2325691-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=12 October 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Welliton, Fernandão'ya sahip cikti|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/welliton-fernandao-ya-sahip-cikti-fenerbahce-kayserispor-2314921-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=22 September 2016|access-date=26 May 2019}} This lasted until he missed two matches in January after being dropped from the squad following an incident with the club's management.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor'da Welliton affedildi|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2017/01/23/kayserisporda-welliton-affedildi|publisher=Sabah Sport|language=tr|date=23 January 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}} Following his return to the first team, Welliton continued his goal scoring form, scoring against Fenerbahçe, Gençlerbirliği, Bursaspor and Çaykur Rizespor (twice).{{cite news|title=Kayserispor 4–1 Fenerbahce maci golleri|url=https://www.sporx.com/kayserispor-4-1-fenerbahce-maci-golleri-SXHBQ601489SXQ|publisher=Sporx|language=tr|date=30 January 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Gençlerbirliği-Kayserispor: 2-3|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/genclerbirligi-kayserispor-canli-genclerbirligi-2390539-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=4 February 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Kayserispor fırtınası devam ediyor|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2017/02/17/kayserispor-bursaspor-maci-canli|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=17 February 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Çaykur Rizespor-Kayserispor: 2-4|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/caykur-rizespor-kayserispor-canli--kayserispor-caykur-rizespor-2402631-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=24 February 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}} He then scored a brace on 29 April 2017, in a 3–0 win over Alanyaspor, adding his fifteenth goal of the season.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor'da 3 puan sevinci|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2017/04/30/kayserisporda-3-puan-sevinci|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=29 April 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}} Despite missing out the remaining league matches of the 2016–17 season, Welliton went on to make thirty–four appearances and scoring twenty–five times in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2017–18 season, Welliton was linked a move away from Kayserispor, which led him to not play for the side again in September 2017.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor'dan Galatasaray'a Welliton uyarısı|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2017/08/25/kayserispordan-galatasaraya-welliton-uyarisi|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=25 August 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Welliton: "Bird aha Kayserispor'da Oyanamam|url=http://www.milliyet.com.tr/welliton-bir-daha-kayserispor-da-kayserispor-2522924-skorerhaber/|publisher=Milliyet|language=tr|date=20 September 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}

=Sharjah FC=

On 26 September 2017, Welliton moved to UAE Pro-League side Sharjah, signing a two–year contract for 1.5 million Euros.{{cite news|title=Kayserispor Welliton'u sattı, zehir zemberek açıklama yaptı|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2017/09/26/kayserispor-wellitonu-satti-zehir-zemberek-aciklama-yapti|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=26 September 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Welliton'dan havale ücretini bile aldılar!|url=https://www.sabah.com.tr/spor/futbol/2017/10/06/wellitondan-havale-ucretini-bile-aldilar|publisher=Sabah Sports|language=tr|date=6 October 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}

Welliton made his Sharjah FC debut on 30 September 2017, where he came on as a substitute for Omar Jumaa during the second half, in a 2–1 loss against Al-Wasl.{{cite news|title=بثلاثة أهداف في الدقائق الأخيرة .. الشارقة يخسر أمام الوصل بهدفين لهدف|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/بثلاثة-أهداف-في-الدقائق-الأخيرة-الشار/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=30 September 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}} It wasn't until on 13 October 2017 when he scored his first goal for the club, in a 3–2 loss against Hatta Club.{{cite news|title=بهدف في الزمن بدل الضائع.. الشارقة يخسر أمام مضيفه حتا 2/3|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/بهدف-في-الزمن-بدل-الضائع-الشارقة-يخسر/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=13 October 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}} Welliton scored two goals in two matches between 30 November 2017 and 8 December 2017 against Al Jazira and Dibba Al-Fujairah Club.{{cite news|title=الشارقة يخسر أمام الجزيرة بهدفين لهدف|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/الشارقة-يخسر-أمام-الجزيرة-بهدفين-لهدف/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=30 November 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=الملك يختتم مباريات الدور الأول لدوري الخليج العربي بالتعادل مع دبا 1/1|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/الملك-يختتم-مباريات-الدور-الأول-لدوري/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=8 November 2017|access-date=26 May 2019}} He since established himself in the starting eleven for the side and started every match until being suspended in early–February.{{cite news|title=عبدالعزيز العنبري: ندخل مباراة حتا بغيابات مؤثرة وواثق من مقدرة البدلاء على الظهور الجيد|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/عبدالعزيز-العنبري-ندخل-مباراة-حتا-بغي/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=31 January 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=عبدالعزيز العنبري: أتمنى ان يبارك لي مهدي علي الفوز بعد نهاية المباراة|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/عبدالعزيز-العنبري-أتمنى-ان-يبارك-لي-مه/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=7 February 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}} After returning to the first team, Welliton scored two more goals, including against Dibba Al-Fujairah Club in the last game of the season.{{cite news|title=Celebrations on ice for Al Ain as Al Wahda win|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sport/local/celebrations-on-ice-for-al-ain-as-al-wahda-win|publisher=The Khaleej Times|date=7 April 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Sharjah wrap it up with win over 10-man Dibba|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sharjah-wrap-it-up-with-win-over-10-man-dibba|publisher=The Khaleej Times|date=28 April 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}} At the end of the 2017–18 season, he went on to make nineteen appearances and scoring seven times in his first season at Sharjah FC.

At the start of the 2018–19 season, Welliton started the season well when he scored five goals in the first two league matches, including scoring four times against Al-Nasr on 14 September 2018.{{cite news|title=الملك يكسب الظفرة برباعية ويضع أول 3 نقاط في رصيده بالدوري|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/الملك-يكسب-الظفرة-برباعية-ويضع-أول-3-نقا/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=30 August 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=Sharjah hit Al Nasr for a six|url=https://gulfnews.com/sport/football/sharjah-hit-al-nasr-for-a-six-1.2278407|publisher=Gulf News|date=14 September 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}} His goal scoring form continued throughout 2018, including scoring a brace on three occasions and adding fifteen goals to his tally.{{cite news|title=الملك يواصل الصدارة بثلاثية في مرمى دبا الفجيرة|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/الملك-يواصل-الصدارة-بثلاثية-في-مرمى-دب/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=23 November 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=الملك يهزم أصحاب السعادة بثلاثية ويحافظ على الصدارة من ملعب آل نهيان|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/الملك-يهزم-أصحاب-السعادة-بثلاثية-ويحا/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=3 December 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=برباعية في شباك الإمارات .. الشارقة ملكاً للشتاء|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/برباعية-في-شباك-الإمارات-الشارقة-ملكا/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=13 December 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}} He continued to be a first team regular for the side in his second season.{{cite news|title=ويلتون سواريز: فوز الشارقة أهم لدي من الإنجاز الشخصي|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/ويلتون-سواريز-فوز-الشارقة-أهم-لدي-من-ال/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=15 September 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}} His performance throughout October earned him the league's October Player of the Month.{{cite news|title=عبدالعزيز العنبري: نسعى لأول فوز في كأس الخليج العربي والظفرة منافس قوي|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/عبدالعزيز-العنبري-نسعى-لأول-فوز-في-كأس/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=11 November 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=ويلتون سواريز: صراع الهداف لا يهمني ولا نعاني من ضغوطات الصدارة|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/ويلتون-سواريز-صراع-الهداف-لا-يهمني-ولا/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=24 October 2018|access-date=26 May 2019}} However, later in the 2018–19 season, Welliton's goalscoring form soon dropped, scoring four times, leading Sebastián Tagliabúe leap over him as the league's top scorer.{{cite news|title=Abdulaziz Al Anbari crowned coach of the year after leading Sharjah to Arabian Gulf League title|url=https://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/abdulaziz-al-anbari-crowned-coach-of-the-year-after-leading-sharjah-to-arabian-gulf-league-title-1.862909|publisher=The National|date=18 May 2019|access-date=26 May 2019}} Despite this, Welliton, along with Tagliabúe and Igor Coronado, were nominated the league's Golden Ball for Best Foreign Player, but lost out to Coronado.{{cite news|title=New champions Sharjah sparkle on AGL Awards night|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sharjah-sparkle-on-agl-awards-night|publisher=The Khaleej Times|date=18 May 2019|access-date=26 May 2019}} One of the four goals he scored was a 3–2 win over Al Wahda, resulting winning their first title since 1996 in 2019 with a record of only one loss.{{cite news|title=Wild celebrations as Sharjah end 23 year wait for AGL crown|url=https://gulfnews.com/sport/uae-sport/wild-celebrations-as-sharjah-end-23-year-wait-for-agl-crown-1.1557958772161|publisher=Gulf News|date=16 May 2019|access-date=26 May 2019}}
{{cite news|title=الملك يتوج بطلاً لدوري الخليج العربي|url=https://www.sharjahfc.gov.ae/الملك-يتوج-بطلاً-لدوري-الخليج-العربي/|publisher=Sharjah FC|language=ar|date=25 May 2019|access-date=26 May 2019}} At the end of the 2018–19 season, Welliton made twenty–six appearances and scoring twenty times in all competitions.

International career

Welliton has not been called up by Brazil and has expressed interest in representing Russia.{{cite news|title=Веллитон: "Спартак" предложил мне принять российское гражданство»|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/12788892.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=11 June 2009|access-date=13 June 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Futebol/0,,MUL1190201-9842,00.html|title=Welliton, ex-Goiás: 'Dirigentes fariam tudo para me naturalizar russo'|publisher=Globo Esporte|language=pt|date=11 June 2009|access-date=26 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090614095835/http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Futebol/0,,MUL1190201-9842,00.html|archive-date=14 June 2009|url-status=dead}}

After playing in Russia for over three years, Welliton said it would be an honour to play for the national team, citing his preparation as a reason.{{cite news|title=Веллитон: "Выступать за сборную России – большая честь"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/72534727.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=23 August 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}} However, Welliton's decision to play for Russia was met with a mixed reception, with then Russia's captain Andrey Arshavin and Leonid Fedun arguing against having Welliton in the squad,{{cite news|title=Андрей Аршавин: "Я против приглашения Веллитона в сборную России"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/47244299.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=14 November 2009|access-date=13 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Леонид Федун: "Не советовал бы Веллитону принимать российское гражданство"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/73010566.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=13 September 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}} while the president of Russian Football Union, Sergey Fursenko, Miroslav Romaschenko and public opinion in Russia supported Welliton to play for the national side.{{cite news|title=Сергей Фурсенко: "В натурализации Веллитона заинтересован «Спартак"|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/71171366.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=11 June 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}}
{{cite news|title=Brasileiro pode ser o primeiro estrangeiro a jogar na seleção russa|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/brasileiro-pode-ser-o-primeiro-estrangeiro-a-jogar-na-selecao-russa,b0ff9329da49a310VgnCLD200000bbcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=9 September 2010|access-date=26 May 2019}}

In November 2011 Spartak Moscow announced they were in the process of helping Welliton acquire a Russian passport.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/553/russia/2009/12/01/1658756/spartak-moscows-brazilian-striker-welliton-eager-to|title=Spartak Moscow's Brazilian Striker Welliton Eager To Represent Russia|publisher=goal.com|access-date=6 June 2010|date=1 December 2009}} Should Welliton represented the Russia national team, he would be the first foreign footballer born outside of Russia to do so.{{cite news|title=Brasileiro pode ser o primeiro estrangeiro a jogar na seleção russa|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/brasileiro-pode-ser-o-primeiro-estrangeiro-a-jogar-na-selecao-russa,b0ff9329da49a310VgnCLD200000bbcceb0aRCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=9 September 2010|access-date=13 June 2016}} However, the process of never happened.

Personal life

Born and raised in Conceição do Araguaia, Brazil, Welliton grew up in poor family and has two older brother and a younger sister.{{cite news|title=ВЕЛЛИТОН УЖЕ ПРИКОСНУЛСЯ К СПАРТАКОВСКОЙ ИСТОРИИ|url=http://www.sport-express.ru/newspaper/2007-08-01/1_1/|publisher=Sports Express|language=ru|date=1 August 2007|access-date=13 June 2016}} On 27 July 2007, Welliton became a father when his wife, Monica, gave birth to a son, Kayu. Welliton and Monica were married when they were sixteen. Welliton also has a tattoo on his left arm with his mother name, Yolanda.{{cite news|title=Веллитон: снится вызов в сборную Бразилии|url=http://www.championat.com/football/article-45389.html|publisher=Championat.com|language=ru|date=16 December 2009|access-date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106192410/http://www.championat.com/football/article-45389.html|archive-date=6 January 2014|url-status=dead}}

In May 2014, Welliton was arrested for driving under influence in Spain.{{cite news|title=Atacante brasileiro do Celta é detido por dirigir embriagado na Espanha|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/atacante-brasileiro-do-celta-e-detido-por-dirigir-embriagado-na-espanha,d760432d82dc5410VgnCLD200000b0bf46d0RCRD.html|publisher=Esportes Terra|language=pt|date=5 May 2014|access-date=14 June 2016}} Welliton was charged and had his driving revoked, in addition, of 9000 euros.{{cite news|title=Веллитон на год лишен водительских прав за вождение в нетрезвом виде|url=http://www.sports.ru/football/1020347841.html|publisher=Sports.ru|language=ru|date=6 May 2014|access-date=13 June 2016}}