Brazilian Kevin took the risk of swapping Palmeiras for Shakhtar Donetsk in 2024, when Ukraine was already at war with Russia. On the rise after a year and a half, the 22-year-old forward is convinced he made the right decision. In this exclusive interview with Flashscore, Kevin opens up about his time in Ukraine and his goals for the future.
Accustomed to having many Brazilians in their squad, Shakhtar suffered badly from the issues at the start of the war. More than three years after the Russian invasion, however, their tradition of signing Brazilians has been revived. Kevin is joined by eight compatriots in the squad, something that has helped him adapt.
"It makes things a lot easier. It's different talking to someone in your own language. Shakhtar has always been a breeding ground for Brazilians and has always welcomed them very well. There was a low point, but that will only grow," he told Flashscore.
In April, Marlon Gomes scored the 1,000th Brazilian goal for Shakhtar Donetsk. The 1001st was Kevin's. The youngster finished the season with nine goals and four assists in 35 games, crowned by the Ukrainian Cup title. In March and April, he was voted the team's player of the month.
"It's very gratifying to help with such a great and historic milestone. To be able to follow a generation of so many marvellous players. And for me, it's very important to continue building this history.
"I've been able to help by scoring a lot of goals, and I hope there are many more to come," he added.
Kevin is joined by several Brazilians at ShakhtarShakhtar
Kevin's future, however, could be far from Ukraine, as the striker is attracting interest from the big European leagues. Napoli and RB Leipzig are willing to pay 40 million euros for the Brazilian, according to UOL.
"It's a childhood dream to help the Brazilian national team in a World Cup and to be able to represent a giant European club," he said.
What's it like playing in Ukraine?
Despite the tension of being in a war scenario, Kevin guarantees that the situation isn't as "thunderous" as it seems. "Of course, it's a complicated time here, but Shakhtar gives us all the support we need," he explains.
The most impactful case occurred in a match against Kryvbas on September 1st in the Ukrainian Premier League. Five days earlier, Russia bombed the hotel where Shakhtar were staying.
"The game started last year and was cancelled because of the (Russian attack) siren. We played the first half, and the rest of the match was in April 2025. It was supposed to last an hour and a half, but it ended up lasting 200 days," remarked Kevin.
The striker didn't even consider turning down Shakhtar's offer when he was at Palmeiras, given the moment he was experiencing at the club. Kevin's father left the decision in the hands of the player, who opted for the transfer.
"I thought it would be best for me, even with the moment Ukraine was going through. And I wasn't wrong in my choice. You can see that today because I'm doing well here, making my numbers, and I don't regret anything. This is a great club, it gives you all the structural support," he said.
On leaving Palmeiras
The sale of Kevin in 2024 has led to criticism from Palmeiras fans towards the board and coach Abel Ferreira. Voted the star of the Copinha in 2023, won by the Verdao, the striker had only played 11 games as a professional until his transfer. He avoids going into detail about his time in Palmeiras' first team.
"I only listen to the comments of my father, my mother and my managers, who will add something to my career. As far as Abel and the committee are concerned, I don't want to know too much because it was something that was discussed very well. Maybe at the moment, I couldn't be used much," Kevin admitted.
"Every player has his moment at the club. That wouldn't have been my moment at Palmeiras, and I'm very happy today," he added.
Kevin made 11 appearances for Palmeiras' first teamCesar Greco/Palmeiras
Footballing idol
Kevin realised a dream by playing in the Champions League and scoring two goals in the latest edition. The striker even boasts the record for the most dribbles taken by a Brazilian in the tournament. And he doesn't hide who his inspiration comes from.
"I've always made it very clear that my idol is Neymar. Because of his style of play, I grew up watching him. I've always loved watching Neymar, whatever team he's in. And it's never been any different.
"I'm really rooting for him today, being at Santos, and my idol will always be him," Kevin confessed.