Born in Santa Rosa, Rio Grande do Sul, Taffarel began his career playing for Sport Club Internacional but only appeared in 14 Série A games during his five-year spell, being however awarded the Golden Ball award for the 1988 season.
In 2004, Taffarel rejoined Galatasaray as goalkeeper coach - under former teammate Gheorghe Hagi - returning to the club for the 2011-12 season, again with Fatih Terim as manager.