Second Chance Or Scandal? Convicted Killer Bruno Fernandes' Controversial Comeback

Last Updated:February 19, 2026, 18:20 IST

Bruno Fernandes, ex-Flamengo goalkeeper convicted for Eliza Samudio's murder, is set to return with Vasco-AC after serving six years in prison, sparking controversy across Brazil.

Former Flamengo goalkeeper Bruno Fernandes — no, not that one, Manchester United fans — is preparing to return to professional football.

Why is this big news? Well, he’s coming back into professional football after murdering his girlfriend. Yep, you read that right.

According to ge.globo, the Brazilian shot-stopper, convicted in 2013 for the murder of his former partner Eliza Samudio, has been registered with Vasco-AC in the CBF’s BID system and could make his debut as early as Friday, February 20.

Who is this Bruno?

Bruno was once one of Brazil’s brightest goalkeeping prospects. After spells at Atletico Mineiro and Corinthians, he earned a €3 million move to Flamengo, where he quickly became first-choice. There were even whispers of a potential 2010 World Cup call-up.

Then everything collapsed.

Details of the murder

In 2010, Samudio disappeared after reportedly seeking child support. Investigators later alleged she was lured to Bruno’s farm under the pretext of reaching a settlement.

Prosecutors said she was beaten, strangled, dismembered and her remains disposed of. Her body has never been recovered.

The trial and fallout

Bruno denied ordering the killing, claiming he only learned about it afterward. DNA tests confirmed he was the father of Samudio’s child. In March 2013, he was sentenced to 22 years in prison for murder and concealment of a corpse.

But he did not serve the full term.

After multiple appeals and a habeas corpus motion, Bruno was granted parole in 2017 after serving just over six years. Since then, he has attempted sporadic comebacks in lower divisions, each one sparking outrage and debate.

Now, more than a decade after his conviction, Bruno is once again set to pull on the gloves. And as expected, the reaction of the public in Brazil remains deeply divided.

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