Nice's Eternal Capitão Dante Still Going Strong

After more than 680 professional matches over a career spanning 22 years, Dante is still going strong as the eternal captain of OGC Nice at the age of 40. The former Brazil international joined the Riviera club seven years ago after spells at Lille, Charleroi, Mönchengladbach and Wolfsburg. This followed his trophy-laden stint at Bayern Munich where he won the Champions League and four Bundesliga titles.
It looked like it could have been over after Dante succumbed to an ACL injury at the age of 37, but the Nice captain is continuing to put in the minutes and vital performances for Les Aiglons. The latest came in a hard-fought goalless draw with close table rivals Stade Brestois last weekend.

What’s the secret to Dante’s longevity?

In an interview with L’Équipe earlier this year, Dante revealed some of the secrets to his success. The Brazilian admitted he was strict on his sleep schedule, only staying up past 11pm for the big Champions League matches. He also says he eats early in the evening, with particular attention to his diet before Matchday…

“Two days before matches, we have very short sessions, so you reduce everything. Not too much sugar, especially in the evening. It makes a huge difference,” he said. If it is his lifestyle choices that mean he has gone on for so long, it is also his love for football, “Apart from when I’m with my children, the moment I enjoy most in the day is on the pitch,” says Dante.

The Brazilian and his OGC Nice teammates will be back in action tomorrow evening to face Montpellier in the Coupe de France (kick-off 20:30 CET).