Venezia have officially announced the signing of Brazilian defender Juan Jesus. The two sides have signed a contract that runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, with an option to extend for approximately one year subject to certain conditions.
Juan Jesus has extensive experience in Serie A and European competitions, having previously played for Inter Milan, Roma, and Napoli. After joining Napoli in the summer of 2021, he played a crucial role in the team's defense, making 130 appearances, contributing 5 goals and 2 assists. He helped Napoli win the Serie A titles in the 2022/23 and 2024/25 seasons, and also helped Napoli win the Italian Super Cup in the 2025/26 season.
In their announcement, Venezia stated that Juan Jesus came through Brazil's international youth academy, made his first-team debut in the 2009/10 season, and won the Copa Libertadores title that season. In January 2012, he transferred to Inter Milan, where he made 142 appearances, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
In the 2016/17 season, Juan Jesus transferred to Roma, where he made 102 appearances over five seasons, scoring one goal and providing one assist. Now, having joined Venezia on a free transfer, this experienced center-back will continue to provide the team with defensive stability.
At the national team level, Juan Jesus represented Brazil at various youth levels, winning the 2011 South American U20 Championship and the 2011 U20 World Cup with the Brazilian U20 team. He made his Brazilian national team debut in May 2012 and made a total of 4 appearances for the Brazilian national team in his career.
To date, Juan Jesus has made 280 Serie A appearances, as well as 37 Europa League matches and 24 Champions League matches.
After joining Venezia, Juan Jesus said: "I have come to a very beautiful city and a club with important goals and ambitious plans. I am very happy to be here and am ready to contribute my strength and bring my experience to the team."
“I will do my best to bring peace of mind and stability to my teammates, both on and off the field, and strive to provide assistance. This has always been my characteristic. I will approach my work with humility and give my all for the team.”
Speaking about playing alongside goalkeeper Filip Stankovic, Juan Jesus said: "Playing with Filip is special because I've known him since he was nine years old, when I played alongside his father."
Finally, Juan Jesus also greeted the Venezia fans and expressed his hope to create wonderful memories with them at the stadium.
