Anderson Andrade Schmitt, known as ‘El Malabarista,’ is celebrated as one of the most talented players to ever compete in the Liga Nacional de Fútbol Sala. His time in Spain remains among his fondest memories. He had a pre-contract with Playas de Castellón but ultimately decided to stay longer in Brazil. In 2001, he joined Caja Segovia—a team filled with Intercontinental Cup champions and players who were also part of the 2000 national team. Adjusting to Spain was challenging at first, but by 2002, Anderson moved to Carnicer Torrejón and fondly remembers its late president, José Carnicer.
In 2003, he was on the market again. Drawing interest from top teams like ElPozo Murcia and Movistar Inter, yet ultimately joined Gestesa Guadalajara, where he found his best moments in Spain. He remained there until 2008. Overcoming knee injuries that sidelined him for almost a season but still scoring impressively with 55 and 45 goals in consecutive years.
Anderson’s career took him around the globe. Playing in Italy, Kazakhstan, and Kuwait before returning to Brazil, where he transitioned into politics as a councilor and secretary of sports in Foz do Iguaçu. Now president of the Paraná Futsal Federation and CEO of Mundo do Futsal, Anderson organizes the Intercontinental Cup. Recently won by Palma Futsal in Son Moix. Falcao, a futsal icon who adopted many of Anderson’s dribbles, served as ambassador for this tournament.
Reflecting on his career
Reflecting on his career, Anderson noted that the style of play has shifted significantly since his days. Becoming more robotic and tactical, with a diminished focus on creativity and dribbling skills. He expressed concern that young players today focus on structured tactics over enjoying the game, unlike his generation, which prioritized skill and flair. As a manager, Anderson worries about the sport’s commercial appeal and criticized modern goal celebrations, which lack the team spirit and fan interaction that were once common.
Commenting on Brazil’s recent World Cup win, Anderson stressed the importance of building on this victory, especially as the national soccer team struggles. He called attention to Spain’s decline in quality since the era of legendary players like Daniel Ibáñez and Javi Rodríguez, expressing hope that new leadership will help Spain regain its prominence. He also criticized a recent rule change by Spain’s RFEF, stating that reintroducing hand-serves for throw-ins is regressive.
Olympic future skepticism
Regarding futsal’s Olympic future, Anderson expressed skepticism, noting that the topic has surfaced every World Cup without progress. After the success of the U-21 Club World Cup in Brazil and the Intercontinental Cup in Palma, he highlighted these tournaments’ goals of gaining global recognition. Anderson has also launched new initiatives, including a contract with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and the Brazilian Confederation to hold a Super Classic of the Americas between Argentine and Brazilian league champions.
Looking forward, Anderson will host the World of Futsal Penalty Experience 2024 in December, a global futsal event in Foz do Iguaçu featuring international coaching conferences, clinics, and the Mundo do Futsal Gala. Last year’s event drew 15,000 attendees, and he expects to surpass 20,000 this year. Passionate about futsal, Anderson is determined to see the sport grow, stating, “I started in indoor soccer and will dedicate my life to it.” He hopes to elevate futsal to its highest level, urging all involved to strive for excellence.
