João Gabriel

João Gabriel Cardozo Santos Maklouf (; born 6 April 2007), known as João Gabriel, is a footballer who plays as a centre-back for the under-20 team of club Como. Born in Brazil, he represents Lebanon at youth level.

Early life João Gabriel was born in São Paulo, Brazil, His paternal grandfather emigrated from Lebanon to Brazil, and his father, Leonardo Maklouf, was born in Santos, São Paulo.

Club career João Gabriel began playing football at the age of six at Santos. After four seasons, he joined Nacional-SP, playing at the under-11 level in 2018, before moving to Audax, where he played at the under-13 level in 2019.

In August 2023, João Gabriel joined Roma on loan from Corinthians. He initially played for the under-18 side and was subsequently involved with the Primavera (under-19) team. He also trained with the first team under manager Cesc Fàbregas. In July 2025, Como extended his contract until July 2028. helping Como win Group A and secure promotion to the Campionato Primavera 1.

International career João Gabriel is eligible to represent Brazil, Italy, and Lebanon.

Style of play João Gabriel primarily plays as a centre-back and has also been deployed at right-back. At Como, he has been developed in a system based on a high defensive line, pressing and attempts to regain possession immediately after losing the ball.

Personal life João Gabriel speaks Portuguese, English, Spanish, and Italian. He studied Italian before moving to Italy in 2023. He began practising kung fu at the age of six and competed at state and national level in Brazil, attaining a brown belt. He has cited the sport as an influence on his coordination, agility and physical preparation.

Honours Como Campionato Primavera 2: 2025–26 (Group A)