[3] In 2005 Athirson was signed by Bayer Leverkusen, but was released after two years, along with fellow Brazilian defender Roque Junior.

In 2011, he signed for Duque de Caxias to play at Campeonato Brasileiro Série B but was released during the competition.

On 6 October 2011, he signed for Projecta, a Brazilian indoor soccer club based at Espírito Santo.

He was useful there because of his accurate passing, long-range striking ability, attacking drive, and articulate dribbling skills.

[citation needed] His talent, playing style, nationality, and position led him to be compared to compatriot Roberto Carlos in his youth.