Melo: If I hadn't been a footballer, I would have been a murderer
Fiery Brazilian shares his story
Posted Sunday, September 02, 2018 by Marca.com
Once again, Felipe Melo is making a name for himself in the Copa Libertadores.
The Palmeiras midfielder was sent off after just three minutes and could miss the next three games of the continental tournament, if CONMEBOL decide on that punishment.
On the field, he is a tough player who is willing to go to the limit but off it, there is a dramatic story when it comes to him.
"If I hadn't been a footballer, I would have been a murderer," he revealed in an interview with La Tercera.
"I lived in one of the most dangerous favelas in Brazil where there were drugs and weapons but I left that life to fight for my dream.
"There were times when I went to training and knew that I had to choose between football or that other life so I said yes to football."
The former Inter enforcer also paid tribute to his wife for playing an important part in turning things around for him.
"At Gremio, I always spent my whole salary and led a strange life but everything changed when I met my wife," he said.
"Then, there was another Felipe Melo. I have had three children with her and, after God, they are the most important thing to me.
"It is said that behind every man there is a great woman but I say that the woman is always right there next to him."
In the interview, the Brazilian was also keen to defend his rough style of play that he has become famous for.
"I don't just kick people. I also have technique and played in Europe for 13 years so I must have something," he pointed out.
"But if I have to give someone a beating, I'll do it."
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