In his early career, Cleiton Xavier played for
CSA and
Internacional, and was loaned out various times.
Palmeiras In early 2009,
Palmeiras signed Cleiton from the relegated
Figueirense. Cleiton Xavier proved he had good talent in Palmeiras's first matches in the
Libertadores Cup and in the
São Paulo State Championship. On 29 April 2009 Cleiton Xavier scored an 87th minute away-goal against
Colo-Colo in the
Libertadores Cup that secured Palmeiras' progression to the knockout stages of the tournament, it was a very long-range shot inside the goalkeeper's left angle. Later in the
Série A alongside teammate
Diego Souza, Cleiton Xavier made an outstanding season with Palmeiras, leading the competition for 19 rounds, however Palmeiras finished 5th due to losses in the final matches and did not qualify for the Libertadores Cup. Cleiton Xavier was elected the 3rd best player of the season, even though he had an injury. In 2010, Cleiton Xavier remained with Palmeiras and also started well the year. He participated in Palmeiras's first ten goals in the
São Paulo State Championship.
Metalist Kharkiv On 14 July 2010, Cleiton Xavier transferred to
FC Metalist Kharkiv for €4.5 million. In 2013, he became popular for scoring a fastest equalizing goal from the starting line after the restart of the match against local league rival,
Chornomorets. He then inspired them to a 3 – 1 victory which boosted their chances to qualify for next season
Champions League campaign in which the victory lift them above another local rival who competing for the same spot,
Dynamo Kyiv. == Club statistics ==