Dani Alves caused a stir by stepping onto the Clausura 2023 stage with a fresh song and a brand new chapter in his career. After a difficult Opening 2022 where the team found itself near the bottom of the table, the Brazilian fullback navigated a challenging season and returned for a second half of the MX season with renewed purpose. This campaign saw Alves aiming to be at the center of attention for the Felines and to help lead their squad toward the proximity of the Mexican football postseason.
In Clausura 2023 the veteran player stood out in the league records wearing a refurbished number. He had initially chosen 33 when he recently joined UNAM, but the jersey he wore during the season carried the number 77. The change was confirmed by Liga MX on December 21, when the club submitted a request to alter his digit. The adjustment reflected Alves personal preference to move away from a number he had not used before at his prior clubs.
With Raphael Rivero at the technical helm, Alves shifted his on pitch role to the right side, a position that has defined much of his storied career. This adaptation came as the coaching approach favored a different midfield and attacking balance for the team during the clausura schedule. Alves entered this phase with a long resume of high level performances on the right flank, a role in which he has repeatedly demonstrated influence, while the coaching staff continued to evaluate the best fit within the tactical setup of the squad.
As the season progressed, the player’s versatility remained a talking point among fans and analysts. His ability to contribute with disciplined defense, smart overlaps, and accurate crosses helped him stay relevant despite a shift in duties from midfield to winger. The managerial decisions around his positioning reflected a broader strategy to maximize experience and leadership on the field, ensuring the Felines could compete at a high level as they pursued critical results.
The club’s approach to roster management during Clausura 2023 showcased a willingness to adjust squad numbers for strategic reasons and player comfort, signaling an environment that prioritizes both performance and personal preference. Alves’s return to competitive action underlined the ongoing belief that veteran players can still influence games, mentor younger teammates, and elevate the team’s overall cohesion. Such moves illustrate how clubs manage a balancing act between senior leadership and the evolving needs of a modern lineup.
The season’s narrative around Alves, including his defensive reliability on the right, his evolving role, and the ongoing adjustments behind the scenes, painted a portrait of a player with a deep well of experience ready to contribute to the team’s ambitions. Through a mix of seasoned decision making and a willingness to adapt to new tactical realities, Alves remained a focal point for the club as they navigated the Clausura schedule and chased important results.
Note: This summary reflects the season’s developments and the public understanding of Alves’s role and jersey number during Clausura 2023 as reported by league communications and team announcements. The ongoing story of his time with UNAM continues to be shaped by both on field contributions and off field decisions that influence the club’s projected trajectory.