Vinícius Tobias, the 22-year-old Brazilian right-back whose career path has been dramatically shaped by geopolitical events, is currently enjoying a standout season with Shakhtar Donetsk. As Shakhtar prepares for a Conference League semi-final clash against Crystal Palace, Tobias is similarly contemplating a unique international future – potentially representing either his native Brazil or, surprisingly, Spain.
Tobias’s journey is a testament to resilience, and adaptability. After joining Shakhtar Donetsk in July 2021, his move was disrupted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The conflict allowed foreign players, including Tobias, to suspend their contracts and seek opportunities elsewhere. This led to a loan spell with Real Madrid, a dream move for the young Brazilian, but one that ultimately served as a crucial developmental step rather than a permanent fixture.
Now back at Shakhtar, Tobias is flourishing. He recently told MARCA that he feels he is having his best season as a footballer, and that form has sparked speculation about his international future. The defender possesses dual nationality, holding both Brazilian and Spanish passports, opening up the possibility of representing either nation on the international stage.
“I don’t just feel about the Brazilian national team, I also have my Spanish passport,” Tobias stated. “I’m working towards that, to play for the Brazilian national team, which is my country… but the Spanish national team can also call me. So, I’m not thinking about playing for Brazil or Spain right now. I hope they both call me, because if they both call me, it means I’m doing a good job. And then I can decide which country to play for.”
The potential for a call-up from Brazil is further heightened by the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as the national team’s manager. Tobias enjoyed a productive loan spell at Real Madrid under Ancelotti, and clearly values the Italian coach’s influence. “For Brazil, he’s been the best choice because he’s an excellent manager, does a great job, and has a perfect relationship with all the players, like Vini [Vinícius Júnior], Rodrygo, and Militão,” Tobias explained. “These players already understand what he does. And for me, the work Ancelotti does with Brazil is perfect. But he hasn’t had much time with the team yet, the call-ups are short… but the work he does is perfect.”
Tobias’s time at Real Madrid, though not a long-term commitment, proved invaluable. He arrived at the Spanish capital with limited professional experience, having previously played primarily with Internacional’s youth teams in Brazil. The move to Shakhtar was initially slated for February 2022, but the war in Ukraine altered those plans. He described his experience with Los Blancos as transformative.
“I think every player has to do different things to reach the level you dream of playing at. So, I arrived in Madrid and I didn’t have any experience as a professional first-team player, to be honest. In Brazil, I was playing with the Under-20s. I went to Shakhtar, I was there for a month, and then I went to Madrid. When I arrived in Madrid, it was a different life, with great players, a different kind of work… So, I had to adapt to the work first. The work I had there with Ancelotti and Raúl, for me, was excellent for my life as a person, the way of working, changing my way of playing, my body, maintaining my form… I think Madrid was the best experience of my life,” Tobias said.
He acknowledged that returning to a club of Real Madrid’s stature, or another major European team, will require continued strong performances. “Now I think, as I know how things work, I think I have to work, play well in the matches to one day be able to return to Madrid or go to another big team.”
Tobias’s story is a compelling example of how external forces can shape a footballer’s career. The war in Ukraine unexpectedly opened doors to a loan spell with one of the world’s most prestigious clubs, and now, as he excels with Shakhtar, he finds himself in the enviable position of potentially choosing between representing two national teams. His current form and the presence of a familiar manager in Ancelotti could significantly influence Brazil’s decision, but the possibility of playing for Spain remains particularly much alive.
Shakhtar Donetsk will face Crystal Palace in the Conference League semi-final first leg on May 8th, 2026, at the Arena Lviv in Lviv, Ukraine (19:00 local time / 12:00 UTC). The return leg is scheduled for May 15th, 2026, in London. The outcome of these matches could further elevate Tobias’s profile and potentially accelerate his path to international recognition.
As Tobias continues to develop and showcase his talent, the footballing world will be watching closely to spot which nation ultimately benefits from his skills and dedication. The decision, when it comes, will undoubtedly be a significant moment in his career.
What are your thoughts on Vinícius Tobias’s situation? Do you think he’ll end up playing for Brazil or Spain? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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