Portuguese · Penafiel, Portugal · Born 22 December 1983Dependable and commanding Portuguese centre-back who captained his country to Euro 2016 victory and was a stalwart of the Premier League for over a decade.
José Diogo Dalot Fonte was born in Penafiel, Portugal on 22 December 1983. A composed, aerial and physically dominant centre-back, Fonte spent the majority of his Premier League career at Southampton, where he became club captain and one of the division's most consistent defenders. He helped Southampton establish themselves in the top half of the Premier League. He moved to West Ham United in 2017 and later to Lille in France, where he continued to perform at the highest level. For Portugal he earned over 60 caps and, most memorably, captained the squad to Euro 2016 victory — stepping in as captain when Cristiano Ronaldo went off injured in the final. He also played at the 2018 World Cup. His leadership and defensive organisation were central to Portugal's historic triumph.
Captaining Portugal to their first major tournament victory at Euro 2016
He captained Portugal to Euro 2016 victory, lifting the trophy after Cristiano Ronaldo was forced off injured in extra time — a moment of extraordinary responsibility handled with grace.
Did You Know?How They Played
Physical centre-back known for aerial ability, leadership qualities and solid defensive positioning
Lasting Impact
Experienced defender who became a late bloomer for Portugal and achieved success in the Premier League
Career Honours
- Euro 2016 (Portugal)
- Euro 2016
- Nations League 2019
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal Palace | 2010–2013 | 70 | 5 | #5 |
| Southampton | 2013–2017 | 60 | 3 | #5 |
| Felgueiras | 2003–2006 | 0 | 0 | — |
| Vitória Setúbal | 2006–2010 | 109 | 7 | — |
| AC Milan | 2022–2023 | 16 | 1 | — |
| Lille | 2021–2022 | 32 | 2 | — |
| West Ham United | 2017–2018 | 24 | 2 | #5 |
| Dalian Professional | 2018–2021 | 61 | 4 | — |
 Portugal | — | 60 | 3 | — |
Portuguese Athletes