Alex Rodrigo Dias da Costa, nicknamed “The Tank”, wore the number 33 shirt in an eight-year stint at the club.
Known for his physical presence and incredible shot, Alex became a fan favorite in his time at the club. Initially spending three years on loan at PSV, where he went on to win three league titles, Alex finally got his chance with the first team in 2007. Although not a breakthrough season, Alex scored two set pieces early in the season to help further his reputation from dead balls.
When Alex was not scoring free kicks he was latching on to the end of them, such as his header against Arsenal in the 2008/09 season. He also went on to score in the Champions League against Liverpool from roughly 30 yards out. He had a knack of scoring goals against big teams. He would partner John Terry at the back for the majority of the season.
After an injury prone 2009/10 season, Alex signed a new four-year contract at the club. Going on the win the double later that year.
In the following season, Ricardo Carvalho would depart for Real Madrid and Alex would be the first choice centre back next to Terry.
He would eventually lose his spot to David Luiz, only to regain it to end the season after a bad knee injury. Alex would continue his love of scoring against Arsenal by scoring a 25-yard lethal free kick to help Chelsea secure a 2-0 win.
After a rough 2010/11 season and the arrival of Luiz his starting spot was pushed into the danger zone, Alex would ask for a transfer.
He would eventually land a move to PSG in France. After four pieces of silverware, he would leave the French capital and ply his trade in Italy for A.C Milan. Since his arrival there, Alex has cemented his reputation and a starting centre-back spot.
Through his club career, Alex has picked up eight league titles in four different countries along with many other cups. His club trophy cabinet is made that much more impressive with the addition of his 2007 Copa America winner’s medal.
Recently, Alex has been offered a new contract at Milan at the tender age of 33 and it has yet to be accepted. Rumours have it that a potential move back to his home country could see him finish his playing career in Brazil.
The reputation and pedigree of the former Chelsea man continues to soar as he has been recently called “a leader for AC Milan” by Massimo Ambrosini. Given much praise for his experience and talent, Alex’s career seems to be coming to a close.
Although he may be a bit awkward off the pitch, on the pitch his reputation holds true as ‘The Tank’.
His successes in multiple countries shows his talent and his memorable goals for Chelsea will see him be remembered for years. Having spent much time behind the wonderful Carvalho and Terry at Chelsea, this one is for Alex, the tank.
