Wendell Gabriel (2004)

Wendell Gabriel Mendes Craveiro • 22-year-old centre-forward • Brazil

Wendell Gabriel may not possess the size of a traditional target striker, standing somewhere between 178 and 180 cm, but he compensates with a powerful build, a low centre of gravity, and good acceleration. Physically strong and difficult to dispossess, he combines Brazilian technical quality with an aggressive attacking mindset.

A highly versatile forward, Wendell is capable of playing as a centre-forward, attacking midfielder, winger, or second striker. However, his profile is perhaps best suited to a false nine role, where he can influence the game both as a scorer and creator.

His movement is intelligent, particularly when dropping into pockets of space between the opposition’s midfield and defensive lines from his starting position further out to the right. From these areas, he demonstrates strong vision, creativity, and an excellent passing range. He combines effectively with midfield runners and frequently helps progress attacks through quick combinations and clever link-up play.

His left foot is his standout weapon. Whether finishing inside the box or striking from distance, he generates shots with impressive speed and accuracy. Technically, he displays many of the characteristics associated with traditional Brazilian attackers. He is an excellent dribbler, capable of beating opponents through close control and body feints rather than unnecessary tricks. Despite his modest height, he also contributes effectively in the air and attacks crosses with conviction.

Most importantly, he knows where the goal is. Wendell is a natural finisher who can score with either foot and with his head. His composure in front of goal and ability to find dangerous positions have been key factors behind his production.

Areas for improvement

At times, Wendell can become slightly static and would benefit from making more frequent runs in behind the defensive line. Improving the timing and variety of these movements would make him even harder to defend against.

Decision-making in the final third can also be refined. Given his creativity and passing ability, there are situations where an extra pass may be the better option than a shot. Likewise, his assist numbers could arguably be higher considering the quality of opportunities he creates for teammates.

Another point worth monitoring is his playing time. Wendell rarely completes full matches and often gets substituted after around 70 minutes. Some of this may be explained by squad management and Levadia’s depth of attacking talent, but it could also indicate room for improvement in his physical conditioning.

Career trajectory and current form

Wendell developed through the academy of Brazilian giants Palmeiras. Facing fierce competition for opportunities, he moved to Ukraine in August 2023 to join SC Dnipro’s youth setup before transferring to Polissya for a reported fee of €100,000 in February 2024.

After several loan spells within Ukrainian football, he joined Estonian champions FCI Levadia in July 2025, again for a reported fee of €100,000.

The move has proven highly successful. During his first half-season in Estonia, Wendell recorded 6 goals and 4 assists in just 13 matches. Although an injury delayed the start of his 2026 campaign and kept him out of the squad for the opening three league matches, he has responded impressively, scoring 8 goals and adding 1 assist in his first 11 appearances despite averaging only 63 minutes per game.

Transfer outlook

A move this summer may come slightly too early. FCI Levadia will participate in UEFA Conference League qualification, providing Wendell with a valuable opportunity to test himself against stronger opposition and further raise his profile.

Should he perform well in Europe and help Levadia reach the league phase, interest from clubs in stronger leagues is likely to increase significantly. Stylistically, he appears particularly well suited to the Swedish Allsvenskan, where technical attackers are often given greater freedom than in some of Europe’s more physical competitions.

There are similarities in his profile to players such as Bo Hegland at Djurgården: mobile, technically gifted forwards who contribute both goals and creativity. If his development continues at the current pace, Wendell Gabriel looks capable of making the step to a stronger European league in the near future.