 Born in São Paulo, Simplício started his career with hometown's São Paulo FC, going on to remain five years with the club and winning two State Leagues.In 2004, he moved to Italy and signed for Parma FC, after having been discovered by its director of football Arrigo Sacchi.Simplício made his Serie A debut on 22 September 2004 in a 1–2 home loss against Bologna F.C.