"Using football as a tool to transform lives"

Lucas Rosa has always viewed football as more than just a game.  

Now, the Ajax defender is turning that belief into action with Common Goal.   

 At 25, Rosa is committing his support to grassroots initiatives in both the Netherlands and his home country of Brazil. This step reflects Rosa’s trust in football’s ability to create positive change. 

 “I believe in football as a tool to transform lives,” the Brazilian told Common Goal. 

 “Football has given me a lot, and joining forces with Common Goal will help me give back to the community, helping shape a better future through the power of sport.” 

With his arrival, the network once again welcomes Brazilian representation among its members, reaffirming the powerful role football can play in driving social impact in the country.

Born in Ribeirão Preto, Rosa’s love for the game took shape at an early age. 

His career began at Taubaté and Palmeiras before a move to Juventus in 2018. He quickly progressed through the Italian side’s youth system, which eventually led him to Real Valladolid in Spain. There, he made over 80 senior appearances and deepened his understanding of the game, both on and off the pitch. 

 In January 2025, he arrived in Amsterdam, embracing a new city and a new challenge. Beyond football, Rosa saw a fresh opportunity to make a difference while wearing the iconic Ajax shirt. 

“Football has always been my dream,” he said.

“But I want to show other kids that it is possible. Football opens the door to all kinds of dreams.” 

Throughout his career, Rosa has always sought ways to uplift others.  

 Each year, he contributes his football boots and jerseys to social projects that support underprivileged youth, helping to pass opportunities forward. 

 “With these boots, I chase my dreams and I make sure they also help other kids chase theirs,” he said.  

 “Maybe they will help a child take that first step toward their future.” 

 Having played in Brazil, Italy, Spain, and now the Netherlands, Rosa’s journey has shaped a clear sense of purpose: to use football as a vehicle for transformation. 

An outlook has developed that the lessons learned through football should be used to create something greater, particularly for those growing up in challenging conditions. 

“I truly believe what we learn around the world can and should be used to help transform our reality here in Brazil.” 

Rosa has seen the strength of the football community throughout his career. As a teenager, he suffered an ankle injury and was sidelined for weeks before the start of the U17 South American Championship. His teammates surprised him with a signed jersey, reminding him that he was still part of the team, even while off the pitch. 

“That gesture gave me strength to keep going with my recovery and not give up. 

“I learned that in a united team, everyone has an important role, even if you are not on the field.” 

Together with Common Goal, he joins an even larger united team of players, coaches, and leaders working to drive social change through football.  

As part of his commitment, Lucas Rosa will collaborate with Johan Cruyff Foundation in the Netherlands and Fundação EPROCAD in Brazil. 

The Cruyff Foundation was created by Johan Cruyff, legendary Dutch footballer and the greatest icon in Ajax history, as a safe play to play and grow for underserved young people in the Netherlands.

EPROCAD is a social organisation based in Greater São Paulo that uses sport, education, and culture to empower children and adolescents from low-income backgrounds.

 “Through football, education, my journey, and now with Common Goal, I want to give back everything I’ve been receiving.  

"And I’m just getting started.” 

 Watch ‘10 Things that Inspire Me’ by Lucas Rosa on Common Goal’s YouTube here – https://youtu.be/6tPvmr7f6kg