Kaio Jorge, the young Brazilian striker who struggled to find his footing in Europe, is now the shining star for Cruzeiro. At just 22, he’s been instrumental in taking the team to the final of the Copa Sudamericana, scoring four of their five goals in the quarterfinals and semifinals.

After a tough stint with Juventus and Frosinone, Kaio Jorge returned to Brazil in July, joining Cruzeiro. Though it took him 10 matches to find the back of the net, he’s been on fire since, racking up six goals and two assists in his last 12 appearances. His resurgence has made him the go-to man for coach Fernando Diniz, rekindling hopes for Cruzeiro’s first continental title in 15 years.

In the Sudamericana, Kaio Jorge delivered when it mattered most, scoring in all four matches of the quarters and semis—including the decisive goal away at Lanús in Argentina. His stellar performances have reminded everyone why he was considered a rising star at Santos, where he made waves as a teenager.

With Santos, Kaio Jorge featured in 84 games, scored 17 goals, and provided 4 assists before heading to Juventus in 2021. He even played in the 2020 Libertadores final, helping his team reach the summit, though Palmeiras ultimately took the crown.

His time in Europe, however, was riddled with challenges. Injuries, including a torn patellar tendon, sidelined him for much of his Juventus tenure, limiting him to just 11 appearances without a single goal. A loan to Frosinone in 2023 saw slight improvement with three goals and one assist in 22 games, but it wasn’t enough to secure his place in Italy.

Eager for a fresh start, Kaio Jorge returned to Brazil, where he’s rediscovered his form. Standing at 1.76 meters, he’s a versatile forward—deadly in the box but also skilled at dropping deep as a false 9 to link up with teammates. Now injury-free and brimming with confidence, Kaio Jorge believes the best is yet to come. Mark your calendars for November 23 in Asunción, as Cruzeiro faces Racing in what promises to be an epic Sudamericana final. Will Kaio Jorge deliver once again?