He originally started his career as a right-back, but during his time at Shakhtar Donetsk, he was used as a winger, where he showed off his skill and speed.

[6] Ilsinho was a key contributor to the UEFA Cup run when he scored a game-winning goal against Dynamo Kyiv, advancing Donetsk to the finals past their domestic rival.

[7] During the cup final, Ilsinho contributed 87 minutes to an ultimate extra victory against Werder Bremen, Donetsk's first European trophy.

[8][9] In August 2010, Ilsinho returned to his native Brazil, re-signing with his former club, São Paulo FC[10][11] The return to São Paulo was held up initially due to Donetsk requiring a contract extension for an additional season, per the initial player contract agreement.

[3][12] The Court of Arbitration for Sport later awarded Donetsk eligible to receive compensation from Ilsinho for breach of contract for about €3.6 million.

[11][13] Ilsinho rejoined Shakhtar in January 2012 on a three-and-a-half-year contract,[14] accepting a much lower salary than his previous one with the club.

Often deployed as a winger on the right flank, he would also spell as a central attacking midfielder as the Union were seeking at "volume #10" for their system.

[citation needed] Ilsinho was also part of Brazil's squad for the 2008 Summer Olympics in which the team earned a Bronze medal after reaching third place.

[35] Ilsinho holds a U.S. green card which qualifies him as a domestic player for MLS roster purposes.