Table of Contents
Despite his age, Felipe Andrade’s career is already defined by resilience. At just 15, he left his home state in Brazil to join the youth ranks of Fluminense — a decisive move that shaped his football identity.
Felipe's Interview with Territorio MLS is available with subtitles
“I arrived at Fluminense when I was 13 and worked my way up through each category,” Andrade recalls. “The youth system was essential to my development and getting promoted to the first team in 2021.”
His transition to the senior squad coincided with the arrival of manager Fernando Diniz, known for his high-paced, intensity-driven style. “At first, the jump in tempo and physicality was tough,” he says. “But over time, I gained confidence and understood the team’s rhythm.”
Lessons from Fernando Diniz
Time under Diniz left a lasting impression on Andrade’s game.
“He’s a top-level coach with a very unique style — all about possession and control,” says Felipe. “He demands a lot, but he also knows how to communicate and give players confidence. You grow every training session.”
Understanding the tempo of the game was a key takeaway. “Having patience with the ball, knowing when to speed up or hold — that’s what he values most. Once you adjust to that, you grow a lot.”
Libertadores Glory and Mentorship from Legends
At just 20, Felipe had already experienced what many only dream of — lifting the Copa Libertadores alongside football icons.
“Training and playing with guys like Ganso, Marcelo, Felipe Melo… it was incredible. They’ve had amazing careers and are always helping the younger players. Watching them every day was a masterclass.”
Fluminense’s historic 2023 continental title was a career milestone. “It was an unforgettable year — one that will stay with me and the club forever.”
⸻
New Chapter: MLS and Houston Dynamo
The move to the United States came naturally but required adjustment.
“The offer came through my agent. Houston had been scouting me, and we accepted the loan so I could get more minutes,” he explains. “It’s a different game here, a different culture. Early on, I was with the reserve team, just training and learning the league’s rhythm.”
The transition was gradual but rewarding. “Eventually the coach started giving me more chances, especially in preseason friendlies. When my debut came, I was ready to contribute, and that helped me earn a spot in the first team.”
⸻
MLS: Fast, Physical, and Growing
Felipe followed MLS from afar, but being in it confirmed what he expected.
“I already watched some games and knew it was a strong, physical league. Once I arrived, I saw how competitive it really is — the level rises every season.”
Brazilian teammates played a key role in helping him adjust. “Guys like Arthur Júnior Russo were a big help, giving advice about matches and the playing style. MLS is more direct, while the Brazilian league is more technical and slower-paced. Here, you have to think and act fast.”
⸻
A Defender with Attacking Instincts
Though a natural defender, Felipe is known for pushing forward.
Felipe Andrade flies in for the header. 🇧🇷@HoustonDynamo leads San Jose, 2-0. pic.twitter.com/w6EwxR6FxM
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 25, 2025
“My versatility comes from playing both center back and fullback at Fluminense. At Houston, coach Ben Olsen really encourages that attacking mindset — joining the play, creating chances, and going for goal. He wants me to keep that trait, helping the team in different phases of the game.”
⸻
Focused on the Future
Still carving out his place in MLS, Felipe Andrade shows unusual maturity for a player his age. From the youth fields of Xerém to Libertadores glory and now making his mark in Houston, the Brazilian defender is steadily building a career based on humility, learning, and constant growth.
