Zico
Encyclopedia
Arthur Antunes Coimbra (aʁˈtuʁ ɐ̃ˈtũnis koˈĩbɾɐ, born 3 March 1953 in Rio de Janeiro
), better known as Zico (ˈziku), is a Brazil
ian coach and former footballer. He is the current head coach of the Iraq national football team
. Often called the "White Pelé
", he is commonly considered one of the most skilled finishers and one of the best passers ever and possibly the world's best player of the early 80's. He was also known as one of history's greatest free kick specialists, able to bend the ball with pace. The gifted midfielder was named by Pelé
as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers
in March 2004. Also according to Pelé
, generally considered the best footballer ever, "throughout the years, the one player that came closest to me was Zico".
Zico scored 52 goals in 72 international matches for Brazil
, and represented them in the 1978
, 1982
and 1986
World Cups. They did not win any of those tournaments, even though the 1982 squad is considered one of the greatest Brazilian national squads ever. Zico is often considered one of the best players in football history not to have been on a World Cup
winning squad. He was chosen 1983 Player of the Year.
Zico has coached the Japanese national team
, appearing in the 2006 FIFA World Cup
and winning the Asian Cup 2004, and Fenerbahçe, who were a quarter-finalist in 2007–08 in the Champions League
under his command. He was announced as the head coach of CSKA Moscow in January 2009. On 16 September 2009, Zico was signed by Greek side Olympiacos for a two-year contract after the club's previous coach, Temuri Ketsbaia
, was sacked. He was fired four months later, on 19 January 2010.
On 30 May 2010, Zico announced that he would become the new Soccer Executive/Director for Flamengo, coming back to the team where he won his most important honors after 25 years. One of his demands is that his salary won't be paid by the club. Instead, it will be paid by Flamengo's sponsors such as Olympikus and BMG. His contract is for four years.
, Rio de Janeiro
. In common with many Brazilians, he spent much of his youth dreaming of playing professional football. In 1967, while still a teenager, he had a scheduled trial at América, where his brothers Antunes and Edu
were playing at the time. But he caught the attention of the radio reporter and friend, Celso Garcia, who asked Zico's father to take him to a trial at Flamengo
instead. Being a fan of Flamengo, Zico had his father's approval, beginning his path towards becoming one of the most admired players in the history of the sport.
In 1971, he had some appearances in the professional team but only one year later, after 116 matches and 81 goals in the youth team, Zico was promoted to Flamengo's professional squad.
While at Flamengo, Zico was a key player during the most glorious period of the team's history. Along with many other titles, in his first period at Flamengo he led the team to victory in the 1981 Copa Libertadores, the 1981 Intercontinental Cup, and four national titles (1980/82/83/87). On the field, Zico made goals in all imaginable ways, was also a great assister and team organizer, and was known for his excellent vision of the field. He was a two-footed player and an expert at free kick
s.
In the 1978 World Cup against Sweden, Zico headed a corner kick
into the goal in the final minute of the match, apparently breaking a 1–1 tie. However, in a call that became infamous, the Welsh
referee Clive Thomas
disallowed the goal, saying that he had blown the whistle to end the match while the ball was still in the air.
1982 World Cup would see Zico as part of a fantastic squad, side by side with Falcão
, Sócrates
, Cerezo
and Júnior
. In spite of his 4 goals and great skills by that squad, the team was defeated by Paolo Rossi
and Italy
in the second round.
. Though leaving Flamengo fans in sadness, he caused a commotion in Udine
by making fans to dream about better days for the city's club. In the 1983–84 Serie A
, his first in Italy, his partnership with Franco Causio
took Udinese to a higher level, gaining respect from giants Juventus
and Roma. His personal top scorer dispute against Juventus's Michel Platini
was exciting – Zico scored 19 goals, one fewer than top scorer Platini, having played 6 fewer matches than the French footballer. His following season would be punctuated by injuries, suspensions due to openly attacking referees, and a great match against Napoli's Diego Maradona
– his last one as a bianconero.
Ultimately Udinese failed to win any relevant competition and Zico returned to Brazil and Flamengo, sponsored by a group of companies.
while still injured, and missed a penalty during regular time in the quarter-final match against France
. The match ended in a tie which led to a shootout. Zico then scored his goal but after penalties missed by Sócrates
and Júlio César
, Brazil were knocked out. Recovered from injuries, things improved for Zico in 1987 when he led Flamengo to their fourth national title.
In March 1989 he faced a World Cup Masters team composed of names like Eric Gerets, Claudio Gentile
, Franco Causio
, Alberto Tarantini
, Jorge Valdano, Mario Kempes
, Paul Breitner
, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge
and Falcão
.
In December 1989 Zico made his last official appearance for Flamengo in a Brazilian National Championship
match against rivals Fluminense
. Zico made the first goal and Flamengo won the match 5–0.
With 731 matches for Flamengo, Zico is the player with the 2nd most appearances for the club. His 508 goals make him the club's top scorer ever.
The achievements of the greatest idol in Flamengo's history inspired the Brazilian singer Jorge Benjor to write a song in his honour – Camisa 10 da Gávea – helping create the mystique of the club's number 10.
Zico also represented Brazil
in the World Cup of Masters
, scoring in the final of the 1990
and 1991
editions.
appointed Zico as his Minister of Sports. Zico stayed at this political assignment for about a year and his most important contribution was a piece of legislation dealing with the business side of sport teams.
Soccer Club in Kashima
, Ibaraki Prefecture
, to help the club secure a place in Japan's first fully professional soccer league that was set to officially launch in 1993 – J. League
. Zico played for Sumitomo in 1992, the last season before the old Japan Soccer League
was disbanded, and finished as the league's top scorer. When the new league launched, the small town club, renamed Kashima Antlers
, was not expected to compete with richer, more glamorous clubs like Yokohama Marinos and Verdy Kawasaki
. Zico, however, helped the Antlers to win the J.League Suntory Series
and a runners-up finish in its inaugural season, leading the club to cement its place among the league's elite.
His discipline, talent and professionalism meshed very well with Japanese culture, and his influence earned him the nickname, from Japanese soccer fans.
. He returned to Kashima to become the Antlers' technical adviser in 1995, splitting his time between Japan and Brazil – where he still managed to find time to play Beach Soccer. One year later, in 1996, he founded CFZ (Zico Football Centre) in Rio de Janeiro. Zico founded another club, named CFZ de Brasília
, in 1999. By this time, he was a local legend in Japan for having built a contender from almost nothing and putting the city of Kashima on the map. A statue in his honor stands outside Kashima Soccer Stadium.
1Domestic Cups include Copa do Brasil
, Coppa Italia
, J. League Cup
and Emperor's Cup
2Continental competitions include Copa Libertadores and Supercopa Sudamericana
3Include Intercontinental Cup
|-
|1976||9||6
|-
|1977||7||6
|-
|1978||11||3
|-
|1979||5||5
|-
|1980||5||4
|-
|1981||13||14
|-
|1982||11||8
|-
|1983||1||0
|-
|1984||0||0
|-
|1985||5||3
|-
|1986||5||3
|-
!Total||72||52
|}
, Japan Football Association
looked for a replacement for the outgoing Philippe Troussier
, and chose Zico as his successor. Despite his lack of coaching experience besides his stint as Brazil's technical coordinator during the 1998 World Cup
, Zico had great understanding of Japanese soccer from his playing days and his role as Kashima's technical director. In addition, JFA had grown tired of Troussier's clashes with the media while the players were frustrated with his micromanagement
. In contrast, Zico commanded respect from reporters and urged players to express themselves on the pitch.
Although Zico attempted to instill a free-flowing, attacking mentality to the team, his regime got off to an uneven start, which included a 4–1 loss to Argentina
in 2003. Japan had a respectable showing at that year's Confederations Cup but struggled again in the beginning of 2004, only narrowly beating Oman
in the first stage of qualifying for the 2006 FIFA World Cup
and several players were suspended after a drinking incident. Although Japan had not lost in its nine previous matches, he was rumored to be on the verge of resigning and a small group of fans marched in the streets of Tokyo demanding his firing.
He stayed on, however, and won the 2004 Asian Cup despite intimidation from Chinese fans and a team that featured just one European-based player, Shunsuke Nakamura
. He then helped Japan qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup
with just one loss.
Despite the rocky start, injuries to key players and even a bizarre offer from Garforth Town, Zico has led Japan to its third World Cup finals appearance and the third Asian Cup title in four tries. His Japanese team is heavily influenced by Brazil's short passing style, but he has been flexible enough to switch between 4-4-2 and 3–5–2 formations. In addition, he has had a respectable record on European soil, beating Czech Republic
and Greece
and drawing with England
, Brazil
and most recently Germany
.
However, Japan failed to win a single match at the Finals, losing twice (to Australia and Brazil
) and drawing once (to Croatia
), and scoring just two goals while conceding seven. He resigned from Japan at the end of the World Cup campaign.
and won Turkish Super Cup
on the first year of his job. Under his command Fenerbahçe has qualified from UEFA Champions League 2007–08 groups stage for the first time of club's history and beat Sevilla FC
to become a quarter-finalist in 2007–08 season. So far, he also is the team's most successful manager in the history of the European arena.
Zico was given a new nickname by Fenerbahçe fans: Kral Arthur (meaning "King Arthur" in Turkish). For the team's nickname King Arthur and his Knights. In a chat hosted by uefa.com he pointed out that it is unlikely he will sign a contract extension with Fenerbahçe. This was confirmed on 10 June 2008 when he resigned as Fenerbahce manager.
On 8 September 2008, Zico revealed that he would be interested taking over the vacant managers position at Newcastle United following the resignation of Kevin Keegan. He is quoted saying "The Newcastle job is one that I would be very interested in taking. It would be a privilege and an honour, I've always wanted to experience the Premier League as I believe I could enjoy much success coaching in England." He also commented that he isn't bothered about the structure of the board at Newcastle United, "I am used to working alongside technical directors so this isn't an issue for me. It's normal for me to work in those conditions."
in Uzbekistan, where he won the Uzbekistani Cup
and the Uzbek League
. He subsequently took over at Russian side CSKA Moscow but was fired on 10 September 2009.
Less than a week later Zico signed a 2-year contract with Olympiacos F.C.. Despite the absence of numerous first-team players due to injuries, he led the Greek club to a comfortable 2nd place in Group H of the Champions League, earning the qualification to the knockout stage
. In the Greek Superleague
his first results were also impressive, but the success lasted only till early winter and the fans started to complain about both the results and the playing style of the team. And they were ready to use violence against him (or his team) in order to achieve their ends. Finally on 19 January 2010, after a negative series of 4 matches with just one win, though his team lost only two times (twelve wins and four draws) in the Greek Superleague
, Zico was sacked.
The head of the Iraqi Football Association, Najeh Hamoud, said on Friday that negotiations on contract terms will start as soon as Zico comes to Baghdad
. Zico confirmed he has reached a deal to coach the Iraqi national team. He was signed a contract with Iraq Football Federation on 28 August 2011 and began his managing career with the Iraq national team in a match against Jordan
on 2 September 2011.
and Tunico. He is named after Arthur, his maternal grandfather by mother Matilde. Zico married Sandra Carvalho de Sá in 1975 , sister of Sueli, wife of Edu. He has three son, Arthur Jr., Bruno and Thiago.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro , commonly referred to simply as Rio, is the capital city of the State of Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city of Brazil, and the third largest metropolitan area and agglomeration in South America, boasting approximately 6.3 million people within the city proper, making it the 6th...
), better known as Zico (ˈziku), is a Brazil
Brazil
Brazil , officially the Federative Republic of Brazil , is the largest country in South America. It is the world's fifth largest country, both by geographical area and by population with over 192 million people...
ian coach and former footballer. He is the current head coach of the Iraq national football team
Iraq national football team
The Iraqi national football team represents Iraq in international football and is controlled by the Iraq Football Association. They won the 2007 Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup tournament.-The Golden Generation:...
. Often called the "White Pelé
Pelé
However, Pelé has always maintained that those are mistakes, that he was actually named Edson and that he was born on 23 October 1940.), best known by his nickname Pelé , is a retired Brazilian footballer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time...
", he is commonly considered one of the most skilled finishers and one of the best passers ever and possibly the world's best player of the early 80's. He was also known as one of history's greatest free kick specialists, able to bend the ball with pace. The gifted midfielder was named by Pelé
Pelé
However, Pelé has always maintained that those are mistakes, that he was actually named Edson and that he was born on 23 October 1940.), best known by his nickname Pelé , is a retired Brazilian footballer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time...
as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers
FIFA 100
The FIFA 100 is a list of the world-renowned Brazilian striker Pelé's choice of the "greatest living footballers". Unveiled on 4 March 2004 at a gala ceremony in London, the FIFA 100 marked part of the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Fédération Internationale de...
in March 2004. Also according to Pelé
Pelé
However, Pelé has always maintained that those are mistakes, that he was actually named Edson and that he was born on 23 October 1940.), best known by his nickname Pelé , is a retired Brazilian footballer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time...
, generally considered the best footballer ever, "throughout the years, the one player that came closest to me was Zico".
Zico scored 52 goals in 72 international matches for Brazil
Brazil national football team
The Brazil national football team represents Brazil in international men's football and is controlled by the Brazilian Football Confederation , the governing body for football in Brazil. They are a member of the International Federation of Association Football since 1923 and also a member of the...
, and represented them in the 1978
1978 FIFA World Cup
The 1978 FIFA World Cup, the 11th staging of the FIFA World Cup, was held in Argentina between 1 June and 25 June. The 1978 World Cup was won by Argentina who beat the Netherlands 3–1 after extra time in the final. This win was the first World Cup title for Argentina, who became the fifth...
, 1982
1982 FIFA World Cup
The 1982 FIFA World Cup, the 12th FIFA World Cup, was held in Spain from 13 June to 11 July. The tournament was won by Italy, after defeating West Germany 3–1 in the final.-Host selection:...
and 1986
1986 FIFA World Cup
The 1986 FIFA World Cup, the 13th FIFA World Cup, was held in Mexico from 31 May to 29 June. The tournament was the second to feature a 24-team format. Colombia had been originally chosen to host the competition by FIFA but, largely due to economic reasons, was not able to do so and officially...
World Cups. They did not win any of those tournaments, even though the 1982 squad is considered one of the greatest Brazilian national squads ever. Zico is often considered one of the best players in football history not to have been on a World Cup
FIFA World Cup
The FIFA World Cup, often simply the World Cup, is an international association football competition contested by the senior men's national teams of the members of Fédération Internationale de Football Association , the sport's global governing body...
winning squad. He was chosen 1983 Player of the Year.
Zico has coached the Japanese national team
Japan national football team
The Japan national football team represents Japan in association football and is operated by the Japan Football Association, the governing body for association football in Japan...
, appearing in the 2006 FIFA World Cup
2006 FIFA World Cup
The 2006 FIFA World Cup was the 18th FIFA World Cup, the quadrennial international football world championship tournament. It was held from 9 June to 9 July 2006 in Germany, which won the right to host the event in July 2000. Teams representing 198 national football associations from all six...
and winning the Asian Cup 2004, and Fenerbahçe, who were a quarter-finalist in 2007–08 in the Champions League
UEFA Champions League
The UEFA Champions League, known simply the Champions League and originally known as the European Champion Clubs' Cup or European Cup, is an annual international club football competition organised by the Union of European Football Associations since 1955 for the top football clubs in Europe. It...
under his command. He was announced as the head coach of CSKA Moscow in January 2009. On 16 September 2009, Zico was signed by Greek side Olympiacos for a two-year contract after the club's previous coach, Temuri Ketsbaia
Temuri Ketsbaia
Temuri "Temur" Ketsbaia is a Georgian football manager and former player. As a player he represented the Georgian national team and played for Dinamo Tbilisi, Anorthosis Famagusta, AEK, Newcastle United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Dundee.Ketsbaia is often regarded as having played a major role...
, was sacked. He was fired four months later, on 19 January 2010.
On 30 May 2010, Zico announced that he would become the new Soccer Executive/Director for Flamengo, coming back to the team where he won his most important honors after 25 years. One of his demands is that his salary won't be paid by the club. Instead, it will be paid by Flamengo's sponsors such as Olympikus and BMG. His contract is for four years.
Playing career
Zico came from a lower-middle-class family, in the neighborhood of QuintinoQuintino Bocaiúva (Rio de Janeiro)
Quintino Bocaiúva is a neighbourhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The locality is famous by the football player Zico.-References:...
, Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro , commonly referred to simply as Rio, is the capital city of the State of Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city of Brazil, and the third largest metropolitan area and agglomeration in South America, boasting approximately 6.3 million people within the city proper, making it the 6th...
. In common with many Brazilians, he spent much of his youth dreaming of playing professional football. In 1967, while still a teenager, he had a scheduled trial at América, where his brothers Antunes and Edu
Eduardo Antunes Coimbra
Eduardo Antunes Coimbra , better known as Edu, is a former Brazilian footballer who played as an attacking midfielder and went on to become a manager.- Background :...
were playing at the time. But he caught the attention of the radio reporter and friend, Celso Garcia, who asked Zico's father to take him to a trial at Flamengo
Clube de Regatas do Flamengo
Clube de Regatas do Flamengo , also known as Flamengo and familiarly as Mengão, is a Brazilian sports club based in the Flamengo bairro, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro, best known for its professional football team...
instead. Being a fan of Flamengo, Zico had his father's approval, beginning his path towards becoming one of the most admired players in the history of the sport.
Flamengo
Physically Zico was not strong, and his history of determination and discipline began with a hard muscle and body development program conducted by the Physical Education teacher José Roberto Francalacci. A combination of hard work and also a special diet sponsored by his team enabled him to develop a strong body and become an athlete. This later proved to be essential for his success.In 1971, he had some appearances in the professional team but only one year later, after 116 matches and 81 goals in the youth team, Zico was promoted to Flamengo's professional squad.
While at Flamengo, Zico was a key player during the most glorious period of the team's history. Along with many other titles, in his first period at Flamengo he led the team to victory in the 1981 Copa Libertadores, the 1981 Intercontinental Cup, and four national titles (1980/82/83/87). On the field, Zico made goals in all imaginable ways, was also a great assister and team organizer, and was known for his excellent vision of the field. He was a two-footed player and an expert at free kick
Direct free kick
A direct free kick is a method of restarting play in a game of association football following a foul. Unlike an indirect free kick, a goal may be scored directly against the opposing side without the ball having first touched another player.-Award:...
s.
In the 1978 World Cup against Sweden, Zico headed a corner kick
Corner kick
A corner kick is a method of restarting play in a game of association football. It was first devised in Sheffield under the Sheffield Rules 1867...
into the goal in the final minute of the match, apparently breaking a 1–1 tie. However, in a call that became infamous, the Welsh
Wales
Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom and the island of Great Britain, bordered by England to its east and the Atlantic Ocean and Irish Sea to its west. It has a population of three million, and a total area of 20,779 km²...
referee Clive Thomas
Clive Thomas
Clive Thomas is a Welsh former football referee, who operated in the English Football League and for FIFA during his career. He came from Treorchy in the Rhondda Valley.-Career:...
disallowed the goal, saying that he had blown the whistle to end the match while the ball was still in the air.
1982 World Cup would see Zico as part of a fantastic squad, side by side with Falcão
Falcao
Falcao or Falcão may refer to* Élson Falcão da Silva , Brazilian football player* Radamel Falcao, Colombian footballer* Alessandro Rosa Vieira , nicknamed Falcão, Brazilian futsal and football player...
, Sócrates
Sócrates
Sócrates Brasileiro Sampaio de Souza Vieira de Oliveira, MD, , more commonly known simply as Sócrates, is a Brazilian former association footballer....
, Cerezo
Toninho Cerezo
Toninho Cerezo, real name Antônio Carlos Cerezo, is a former football player from Brazil.- Career :...
and Júnior
Júnior
Leovegildo Lins da Gama Júnior , known simply as Júnior, was an association footballer. He was known for his versatility, playing at left back and on the left of midfield for Brazil due to his two footedness , and was named by Pelé as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers in March 2004...
. In spite of his 4 goals and great skills by that squad, the team was defeated by Paolo Rossi
Paolo Rossi
Paolo Rossi is an Italian former football striker. In 1982, he led Italy to the 1982 FIFA World Cup title, scoring six goals to win the Golden Boot/top scorer honors, and the Golden Ball. After his performance at the 1982 FIFA World Cup he became a hero in the hearts of all Italians...
and Italy
Italy national football team
The Italy National Football Team , represents Italy in association football and is controlled by the Italian Football Federation , the governing body for football in Italy. Italy is the second most successful national team in the history of the World Cup having won four titles , just one fewer than...
in the second round.
Italy
After receiving offers from AS Roma and AC Milan, it seemed right to move to Italy, and in a multi-million dollar transaction he was hired to play for Udinese CalcioUdinese Calcio
Udinese Calcio is an Italian football club based in Udine, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and currently plays in the Serie A. Founded in 1896, Udinese is the second oldest club in the Serie A, after Genoa....
. Though leaving Flamengo fans in sadness, he caused a commotion in Udine
Udine
Udine is a city and comune in northeastern Italy, in the middle of Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, between the Adriatic sea and the Alps , less than 40 km from the Slovenian border. Its population was 99,439 in 2009, and that of its urban area was 175,000.- History :Udine is the historical...
by making fans to dream about better days for the city's club. In the 1983–84 Serie A
Serie A
Serie A , now called Serie A TIM due to sponsorship by Telecom Italia, is a professional league competition for football clubs located at the top of the Italian football league system and has been operating for over eighty years since 1929. It had been organized by Lega Calcio until 2010, but a new...
, his first in Italy, his partnership with Franco Causio
Franco Causio
Franco Causio is an Italian, World Cup winning former footballer who played for Juventus for many years in the 1970s and 1980s.-Biography:Causio was born in Lecce , and moved to Juventus when he was 17....
took Udinese to a higher level, gaining respect from giants Juventus
Juventus F.C.
Juventus Football Club S.p.A. , commonly referred to as Juventus and colloquially as Juve , are a professional Italian association football club based in Turin, Piedmont...
and Roma. His personal top scorer dispute against Juventus's Michel Platini
Michel Platini
Michel François Platini is a former French football player, manager and current president of UEFA. Platini was a member of the French national team that won the 1984 European Championship, a tournament in which he was the top goalscorer and voted the best player. He participated in the 1978, 1982...
was exciting – Zico scored 19 goals, one fewer than top scorer Platini, having played 6 fewer matches than the French footballer. His following season would be punctuated by injuries, suspensions due to openly attacking referees, and a great match against Napoli's Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona
Diego Armando Maradona is a retired Argentine football player and widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time. Over the course of his professional club career Maradona played for Argentinos Juniors, Boca Juniors, Barcelona, Napoli, Sevilla and Newell's Old Boys, setting...
– his last one as a bianconero.
Ultimately Udinese failed to win any relevant competition and Zico returned to Brazil and Flamengo, sponsored by a group of companies.
Back to Brazil
On his return, he suffered a knee injury after a violent tackle from Bangu's defender Marcio Nunes, which interrupted his career for several months. He played in the 1986 FIFA World Cup1986 FIFA World Cup
The 1986 FIFA World Cup, the 13th FIFA World Cup, was held in Mexico from 31 May to 29 June. The tournament was the second to feature a 24-team format. Colombia had been originally chosen to host the competition by FIFA but, largely due to economic reasons, was not able to do so and officially...
while still injured, and missed a penalty during regular time in the quarter-final match against France
France national football team
The France national football team represents the nation of France in international football. It is fielded by the French Football Federation , the governing body of football in France, and competes as a member of UEFA, which encompasses the countries of Europe...
. The match ended in a tie which led to a shootout. Zico then scored his goal but after penalties missed by Sócrates
Sócrates
Sócrates Brasileiro Sampaio de Souza Vieira de Oliveira, MD, , more commonly known simply as Sócrates, is a Brazilian former association footballer....
and Júlio César
Júlio César da Silva
Júlio César da Silva, usually known as Júlio César Júlio César da Silva, usually known as Júlio César Júlio César da Silva, usually known as Júlio César (born 8 March 1963 in Bauru (São Paulo) is a retired association footballer from Brazil.- Career :...
, Brazil were knocked out. Recovered from injuries, things improved for Zico in 1987 when he led Flamengo to their fourth national title.
In March 1989 he faced a World Cup Masters team composed of names like Eric Gerets, Claudio Gentile
Claudio Gentile
Claudio Gentile is an Italian football coach and former defender of the 1970s and 1980s. Gentile appeared for Italy in two World Cup tournaments, including playing in the winning Italian team in the 1982 final. His club career was notably spent with Juventus for whom he made almost 300 league...
, Franco Causio
Franco Causio
Franco Causio is an Italian, World Cup winning former footballer who played for Juventus for many years in the 1970s and 1980s.-Biography:Causio was born in Lecce , and moved to Juventus when he was 17....
, Alberto Tarantini
Alberto Tarantini
Alberto Tarantini is an Argentine former football player. He played as a defensive left back early in his career, and later as a wing back....
, Jorge Valdano, Mario Kempes
Mario Kempes
Mario Alberto Kempes Chiodi is a retired Argentine footballer. His father, Mario, also a footballer, inspired him to play from a young age. At the age of 7, he began playing with a junior team and at 14, he joined La Cuarta de Talleres...
, Paul Breitner
Paul Breitner
Paul Breitner is a former German football player. One of Germany's most controversial players, he was capped 48 times for his country.-Playing career:...
, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge
Karl-Heinz "Kalle" Rummenigge is a German former football player.He had his greatest career success with German club Bayern Munich, where he won the Intercontinental Cup, the European Cup, as well as two league titles and two domestic cups.A member of the German national team, Rummenigge won the...
and Falcão
Falcao
Falcao or Falcão may refer to* Élson Falcão da Silva , Brazilian football player* Radamel Falcao, Colombian footballer* Alessandro Rosa Vieira , nicknamed Falcão, Brazilian futsal and football player...
.
In December 1989 Zico made his last official appearance for Flamengo in a Brazilian National Championship
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A
The Campeonato Brasileiro de Clubes da Série A , popularly known as the Brasileirão , is a professional football league at the top of the Brazilian football league system held annually since 1959. Contested by twenty clubs, it operates a system of promotion and relegation with the Série B...
match against rivals Fluminense
Fluminense Football Club
Fluminense Football Club is a sports club based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Founded in the beginning of the 20th century as a single-sport institution, Fluminense is today an umbrella organization for several teams in more than 16 different sport activities. The most popular endeavor of Fluminense,...
. Zico made the first goal and Flamengo won the match 5–0.
With 731 matches for Flamengo, Zico is the player with the 2nd most appearances for the club. His 508 goals make him the club's top scorer ever.
The achievements of the greatest idol in Flamengo's history inspired the Brazilian singer Jorge Benjor to write a song in his honour – Camisa 10 da Gávea – helping create the mystique of the club's number 10.
Zico also represented Brazil
Brazil
Brazil , officially the Federative Republic of Brazil , is the largest country in South America. It is the world's fifth largest country, both by geographical area and by population with over 192 million people...
in the World Cup of Masters
World Cup of Masters
The World Cup of Masters, also known as the Pelé World Cup and Mundialito de Seniors was an event that ran every two years from 1987 until 1995. The tournament was for senior players. In 1990 the term "seniors" was replaced by "masters". The editions until 1991 were organized by Brazilian TV...
, scoring in the final of the 1990
Copa do Craque de Masters
The Copa do Craque de Masters , was the third edition of the World Cup of Masters. For the third time running it was held in Brazil, over the course of January 1990...
and 1991
I World Cup of Masters
I World Cup of Masters was the fourth edition of the World Cup of Masters. For the first time, it was held outside Brazil. It was held in Miami, and all of the matches were played at the Joe Robbie Stadium. The six "Master" teams were reigning champions Brazil, Italy, Uruguay, Argentina and for...
editions.
Brief retirement
After Brazil's first presidential election in many years, the new president Fernando Collor de MelloFernando Collor de Mello
Fernando Affonso Collor de Mello was the 32nd president of Brazil from 1990 to 1992, when he resigned in a failed attempt to stop his trial of impeachment by the Brazilian Senate...
appointed Zico as his Minister of Sports. Zico stayed at this political assignment for about a year and his most important contribution was a piece of legislation dealing with the business side of sport teams.
Japan
In 1991, Zico interrupted his political assignment when he accepted an offer to join the Sumitomo Metal IndustriesSumitomo Metal Industries
is a company with seat in Osaka, Japan. )It is the third largest integrated steel manufacturer in Japan withthree integrated steelworks and several other manufacturing plants.It is one of the largest manufacturers of Seamless Pipes and Tubes,...
Soccer Club in Kashima
Kashima, Ibaraki
is a port city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.As of October 1, 2010, the city has an estimated population of 66,249 and a population density of 708.02 persons per km². The total area is 93.57 km². Kashima was formerly a town in Kashima District and became a city after merging with the...
, Ibaraki Prefecture
Ibaraki Prefecture
is a prefecture of Japan, located in the Kantō region on the main island of Honshu. The capital is Mito.-History:Ibaraki Prefecture was previously known as Hitachi Province...
, to help the club secure a place in Japan's first fully professional soccer league that was set to officially launch in 1993 – J. League
J. League
The or is the top division of and is the top professional association football league in Japan. It is one of the most successful leagues in Asian club football and the only league given top class 'A' ranking by the AFC. Currently, J. League Division 1 is the first level of the Japanese...
. Zico played for Sumitomo in 1992, the last season before the old Japan Soccer League
Japan Soccer League
, or JSL, was the top flight soccer league in Japan between 1965 and 1992, and was the precursor to the current professional league, the J. League. JSL was the second national league of a team sport in Japan after the professional Japanese Baseball League that was founded in 1936...
was disbanded, and finished as the league's top scorer. When the new league launched, the small town club, renamed Kashima Antlers
Kashima Antlers
are a Japanese professional association football club playing in the J. League Division 1. Antlers is derived from the city name, Kashima, which literally means "deer island"....
, was not expected to compete with richer, more glamorous clubs like Yokohama Marinos and Verdy Kawasaki
Tokyo Verdy 1969
, is a Japanese professional football club, based in Tokyo, Japan, that plays in J. League Division 2.Founded as Yomiuri F.C. in 1969, Tokyo Verdy is one of the most decorated teams in the J. League, with honours including 7 league titles , 5 Emperor's Cups, 6 JSL Cup / J...
. Zico, however, helped the Antlers to win the J.League Suntory Series
J. League
The or is the top division of and is the top professional association football league in Japan. It is one of the most successful leagues in Asian club football and the only league given top class 'A' ranking by the AFC. Currently, J. League Division 1 is the first level of the Japanese...
and a runners-up finish in its inaugural season, leading the club to cement its place among the league's elite.
His discipline, talent and professionalism meshed very well with Japanese culture, and his influence earned him the nickname, from Japanese soccer fans.
Retirement, Beach Soccer and CFZ
Zico retired from professional football during the 1994 season but received an invitation to play Beach SoccerBeach soccer
Beach soccer, also known as beach football or beasal, is a variant of association football played on a beach or some form of sand. The game emphasises skill, agility and shooting at goal....
. He returned to Kashima to become the Antlers' technical adviser in 1995, splitting his time between Japan and Brazil – where he still managed to find time to play Beach Soccer. One year later, in 1996, he founded CFZ (Zico Football Centre) in Rio de Janeiro. Zico founded another club, named CFZ de Brasília
Centro de Futebol Zico de Brasília Sociedade Esportiva
Centro de Futebol Zico de Brasília Sociedade Esportiva, also known as CFZ de Brasília, are a Brazilian football team from Brasília, Distrito Federal...
, in 1999. By this time, he was a local legend in Japan for having built a contender from almost nothing and putting the city of Kashima on the map. A statue in his honor stands outside Kashima Soccer Stadium.
Statistics
- This information includes Zico's official, friendly, and exhibition games.
| Team | Matches | Goals | Goal average |
| Flamengo Clube de Regatas do Flamengo Clube de Regatas do Flamengo , also known as Flamengo and familiarly as Mengão, is a Brazilian sports club based in the Flamengo bairro, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro, best known for its professional football team... |
731 | 508 | 0.69 |
| Udinese Udinese Calcio Udinese Calcio is an Italian football club based in Udine, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and currently plays in the Serie A. Founded in 1896, Udinese is the second oldest club in the Serie A, after Genoa.... |
79 | 56 | 0.69 |
| Sumitomo Metals Kashima Antlers are a Japanese professional association football club playing in the J. League Division 1. Antlers is derived from the city name, Kashima, which literally means "deer island".... |
31 | 27 | 0.87 |
| Kashima Antlers Kashima Antlers are a Japanese professional association football club playing in the J. League Division 1. Antlers is derived from the city name, Kashima, which literally means "deer island".... |
57 | 27 | 0.47 |
| Brazil National Team Brazil national football team The Brazil national football team represents Brazil in international men's football and is controlled by the Brazilian Football Confederation , the governing body for football in Brazil. They are a member of the International Federation of Association Football since 1923 and also a member of the... (official matches) |
72 | 52 | 0.72 |
| Brazil National Team Brazil national football team The Brazil national football team represents Brazil in international men's football and is controlled by the Brazilian Football Confederation , the governing body for football in Brazil. They are a member of the International Federation of Association Football since 1923 and also a member of the... (unofficial matches) |
16 | 14 | 0.88 |
| Brazil Olympic Team Brazil Olympic football team Brazil Olympic football team represents Brazil in international football competitions in Olympic Games. The selection is limited to players under the age of 23, except three overage players. The team is controlled by the Brazilian Football Confederation... |
8 | 1 | 0.12 |
| Youth Teams | 116 | 81 | 0.69 |
| Various Select Teams | 70 | 60 | 0.85 |
| Total | 1,180 | 826 | 0.70 |
- This information is based on Zico's senior career totals.
| Club | Season | Domestic League |
Domestic Regional League |
Domestic Cups1 |
Continental Competitions2 |
Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Flamengo Clube de Regatas do Flamengo Clube de Regatas do Flamengo , also known as Flamengo and familiarly as Mengão, is a Brazilian sports club based in the Flamengo bairro, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro, best known for its professional football team... |
1971 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A The Campeonato Brasileiro de Clubes da Série A , popularly known as the Brasileirão , is a professional football league at the top of the Brazilian football league system held annually since 1959. Contested by twenty clubs, it operates a system of promotion and relegation with the Série B... |
15 | 2 | – | – | – | – | – | – | 15 | 2 |
| 1972 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A The Campeonato Brasileiro de Clubes da Série A , popularly known as the Brasileirão , is a professional football league at the top of the Brazilian football league system held annually since 1959. Contested by twenty clubs, it operates a system of promotion and relegation with the Série B... |
4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | – | – | – | – | 6 | 0 | |
| 1973 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1973 Statistics of Campeonato Brasileiro Série A in season 1973-Overview:40 teams took part and Palmeiras won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
26 | 8 | 9 | 0 | – | – | – | – | 35 | 8 | |
| 1974 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1974 -Overview:It was performed in 40 teams, and Vasco da Gama won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
19 | 12 | 31 | 20 | – | – | – | – | 50 | 32 | |
| 1975 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1975 -Overview:It was performed in 42 teams, and Internacional won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
27 | 10 | 28 | 30 | – | – | – | – | 55 | 40 | |
| 1976 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1976 The 1976 Campeonato Brasiliero was the sixth edition of Brazil's top football tournament for clubs. It was won by the holders Internacional, with Corinthians finishing as runners-up.-Final standings:-External links:*... |
20 | 14 | 27 | 18 | – | – | – | – | 47 | 32 | |
| 1977 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1977 -Overview:It was performed in 62 teams, and São Paulo won the championship. This championship is notable for producing what is perhaps the only unbeaten runner-up in world football. Atlético had won all but three of its matches, which were drawn, but was to play a single final match against São... |
18 | 10 | 29 | 27 | – | – | – | – | 47 | 37 | |
| 1978 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1978 -Overview:It was performed in 74 teams, and Guarani won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
0 | 0 | 22 | 19 | – | – | – | – | 22 | 19 | |
| 1979 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1979 -Overview:94 teams took part, and Internacional won the championship undefeated.-Final standings:-References:... |
8 | 5 | 17 + 26 (43) | 26 + 34 (60) | – | – | – | – | 51 | 65 | |
| 1980 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1980 -Teams:Teams selected by record on previous state championship--Final standings:-References:... |
19 | 21 | 26 | 19 | – | – | – | – | 45 | 40 | |
| 1981 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1981 -Overview:It was performed in 44 teams, and Grêmio won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
8 | 3 | 33 | 25 | – | – | 13 | 11 | 54 + 13 | 39 | |
| 1982 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1982 -Overview:44 teams took part, with Flamengo winning the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
23 | 21 | 21 | 21 | – | – | 4 | 2 | 48 | 44 | |
| 1983 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1983 -Overview:It was performed in 44 teams, and Flamengo won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
25 | 17 | – | – | – | – | 3 | 3 | 28 | 20 | |
| Total | 212 | 123 | 271 | 239 | – | – | 20 | 16 | 504 | 378 | |
| Udinese Udinese Calcio Udinese Calcio is an Italian football club based in Udine, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and currently plays in the Serie A. Founded in 1896, Udinese is the second oldest club in the Serie A, after Genoa.... |
1983–84 Serie A 1983-84 The 1983/1984 Serie A season was won by Juventus F.C. It was a tight championship, won only on the last day of the season.-Final classification:-Results:-References and sources:... |
24 | 19 | – | – | 9 | 5 | – | – | 33 | 24 |
| 1984–85 Serie A 1984-85 The 1984/1985 Serie A season heralded Hellas Verona's first and so far only Scudetto. Unusually, none of the big three of Juventus, AC Milan or Inter managed to finish in the top two... |
15 | 3 | – | – | 5 | 3 | – | – | 20 | 6 | |
| Total | 39 | 22 | – | – | 14 | 8 | – | – | 53 | 30 | |
| Flamengo Clube de Regatas do Flamengo Clube de Regatas do Flamengo , also known as Flamengo and familiarly as Mengão, is a Brazilian sports club based in the Flamengo bairro, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro, best known for its professional football team... |
|||||||||||
| 1985 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1985 -Overview:It was performed in 44 teams, and Coritiba won the championship.-Final standings:-References:... |
3 | 1 | 3 | 2 | – | – | – | – | 6 | 3 | |
| 1986 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1986 -Overview:It was performed by 48 teams, including the four champions of the Série B and São Paulo won the championship.-Final standings:-Série A and Série B overall standings:-References:*... |
0 | 0 | 4 | 3 | – | – | – | – | 4 | 3 | |
| 1987 Copa União The Copa União was an one-off competition in Brazilian football, held in 1987 in the absence of the conventional CBF national championship.-Background:... |
12 | 5 | 5 | 1 | – | – | – | – | 17 | 6 | |
| 1988 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1988 As the 1987 Copa União organized by the Clube dos 13 proved to be even more disastrously organized than the criticized 1986 edition, organized by the CBF, the 1988 featured the merging of both modules to feature the first ever tournament with real two divisions with promotion and relegation. The... |
14 | 4 | 6 | 0 | – | – | – | – | 20 | 4 | |
| 1989 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 1989 The 1989 season of the Campeonato Brasileiro began on September 6, 1989, and reached its end on December 16, 1989. The competition was won by CR Vasco da Gama.-Format:... |
8 | 2 | 11 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 27 | 6 | |
| Total | 37 | 12 | 29 | 8 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 74 | 22 | |
| Sumitomo Metals Kashima Antlers are a Japanese professional association football club playing in the J. League Division 1. Antlers is derived from the city name, Kashima, which literally means "deer island".... |
|||||||||||
| 1991–92 | 22 | 21 | – | – | – | – | – | – | 22 | 21 | |
| Kashima Antlers Kashima Antlers are a Japanese professional association football club playing in the J. League Division 1. Antlers is derived from the city name, Kashima, which literally means "deer island".... |
|||||||||||
| 1992 | – | – | – | – | 12 | 7 | – | – | 12 | 7 | |
| 1993 | 16 | 9 | – | – | 7 | 3 | – | – | 24 | 13 | |
| 1994 | 7 | 5 | – | – | – | – | – | – | 7 | 5 | |
| Total | 46 | 36 | – | – | 19 | 10 | – | – | 65 | 46 | |
| Career Totals | 334 | 193 | 300 | 247 | 40 | 20 | 21 | 16 | 696 | 476 | |
1Domestic Cups include Copa do Brasil
Copa do Brasil
The Copa Kia do Brasil, commonly known as Copa do Brasil , is a knockout competition played by 64 association football teams, representing all 26 Brazilian states plus the Federal District...
, Coppa Italia
Coppa Italia
The Coppa Italia is an Italian football annual cup competition. Its first edition was held in 1922, but the second champions were not crowned until 1936. Roma and Juventus lead the way with nine wins. Roma has contested more finals, 16, while Torino and Juventus follow with 13...
, J. League Cup
J. League Cup
J. League Cup is a Japanese football competition organized by J. League. It is also known as Yamazaki Nabisco Cup or Nabisco Cup because confectionery/bakery company Yamazaki Nabisco have sponsored the competition since its inception in 1992.It is generally regarded as the Japanese equivalent to...
and Emperor's Cup
Emperor's Cup
, commonly known as or , is a Japanese association football competition. It has the longest tradition of any football tournament in Japan, dating back to 1921, before the formation of the J. League, Japan Football League and their predecessor, Japan Soccer League...
2Continental competitions include Copa Libertadores and Supercopa Sudamericana
Supercopa Sudamericana
The Supercopa Sudamericana , also known as the Supercopa Libertadores João Havelange, Supercopa Libertadores, Supercopa João Havelange or simply Supercopa, was a football club competition contested annually by the past winners of the Copa Libertadores...
3Include Intercontinental Cup
Intercontinental Cup (football)
The European/South American Cup, commonly referred to as the World Club Championship, Intercontinental Cup or Toyota Cup, was a football competition endorsed by UEFA and CONMEBOL, contested between the winners of the European Cup and the South American Copa Libertadores...
|-
|1976||9||6
|-
|1977||7||6
|-
|1978||11||3
|-
|1979||5||5
|-
|1980||5||4
|-
|1981||13||14
|-
|1982||11||8
|-
|1983||1||0
|-
|1984||0||0
|-
|1985||5||3
|-
|1986||5||3
|-
!Total||72||52
|}
Club honours
- Rio State ChampionshipCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
1972, 1974, 1978, 1979, 1979 (special), 1981, 1986 - Brazilian ChampionshipCampeonato Brasileiro Série AThe Campeonato Brasileiro de Clubes da Série A , popularly known as the Brasileirão , is a professional football league at the top of the Brazilian football league system held annually since 1959. Contested by twenty clubs, it operates a system of promotion and relegation with the Série B...
1980, 1982, 1983, 1987 - Copa Libertadores 1981
- Intercontinental CupIntercontinental Cup (football)The European/South American Cup, commonly referred to as the World Club Championship, Intercontinental Cup or Toyota Cup, was a football competition endorsed by UEFA and CONMEBOL, contested between the winners of the European Cup and the South American Copa Libertadores...
1981 - J.League Suntory SeriesJ. LeagueThe or is the top division of and is the top professional association football league in Japan. It is one of the most successful leagues in Asian club football and the only league given top class 'A' ranking by the AFC. Currently, J. League Division 1 is the first level of the Japanese...
1993
International honours
- 1978 FIFA World Cup1978 FIFA World CupThe 1978 FIFA World Cup, the 11th staging of the FIFA World Cup, was held in Argentina between 1 June and 25 June. The 1978 World Cup was won by Argentina who beat the Netherlands 3–1 after extra time in the final. This win was the first World Cup title for Argentina, who became the fifth...
: Third place - 1982 FIFA World Cup1982 FIFA World CupThe 1982 FIFA World Cup, the 12th FIFA World Cup, was held in Spain from 13 June to 11 July. The tournament was won by Italy, after defeating West Germany 3–1 in the final.-Host selection:...
: Round 2 - 1986 FIFA World Cup1986 FIFA World CupThe 1986 FIFA World Cup, the 13th FIFA World Cup, was held in Mexico from 31 May to 29 June. The tournament was the second to feature a 24-team format. Colombia had been originally chosen to host the competition by FIFA but, largely due to economic reasons, was not able to do so and officially...
: Quarter-finals
Individual honours
- 1974
- Bola de Ouro Brazilian Footballer of the YearBola de OuroThe Bola de Ouro is an award given each year, since 1973, by the authoritative Brazilian magazine Placar to the best player in the Brazilian National Championship. It is practically the equivalent to a Footballer of the Year award...
- Bola de Prata Brazilian Championship All-Star TeamBola de PrataThe Bola de Prata is a Primeira Liga award for the top scorer. In case two or more players have the same amount of goals, the award goes to the footballer with the least games played. It was first awarded has a prize in the 1952–53 season by sport newspaper A Bola.-List of winners:...
- Set a goal record in a single season as a FlamengoFlamengoFlamengo is the name of a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.- History :It is the Portuguese word for Flemish, and it was given to the nearby beach because it was the place where the Dutch sailor Olivier van Noort tried to invade the city in 1599...
player – 49 goals
- Bola de Ouro Brazilian Footballer of the Year
- 1975
- Rio State Championship Top ScorerCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
– 30 goals - Bola de Prata Brazilian Championship All-Star TeamBola de PrataThe Bola de Prata is a Primeira Liga award for the top scorer. In case two or more players have the same amount of goals, the award goes to the footballer with the least games played. It was first awarded has a prize in the 1952–53 season by sport newspaper A Bola.-List of winners:...
- Rio State Championship Top Scorer
- 1976
- Set a goal record in a single season as a FlamengoFlamengoFlamengo is the name of a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.- History :It is the Portuguese word for Flemish, and it was given to the nearby beach because it was the place where the Dutch sailor Olivier van Noort tried to invade the city in 1599...
player – 56 goals - Brazil's top scorer this season – 63 goals
- Silver ball South American Footballer of the YearSouth American Footballer of the YearThe South American Footballer of the Year is an annual association football award presented to the best footballer in South America over the previous calendar year. The award was conceived by Venezuelan newspaper El Mundo, whom awarded it from 1971 to 1985. Uruguayan newspaper El País took over...
- Set a goal record in a single season as a Flamengo
- 1977
- Rio State Championship Top ScorerCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
– 27 goals - Brazil's top scorer this season – 48 goals
- Bola de Prata Brazilian Championship All-Star TeamBola de PrataThe Bola de Prata is a Primeira Liga award for the top scorer. In case two or more players have the same amount of goals, the award goes to the footballer with the least games played. It was first awarded has a prize in the 1952–53 season by sport newspaper A Bola.-List of winners:...
- South American Footballer of the YearSouth American Footballer of the YearThe South American Footballer of the Year is an annual association football award presented to the best footballer in South America over the previous calendar year. The award was conceived by Venezuelan newspaper El Mundo, whom awarded it from 1971 to 1985. Uruguayan newspaper El País took over...
- Rio State Championship Top Scorer
- 1978
- Rio State Championship Top ScorerCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
– 19 goals
- Rio State Championship Top Scorer
- 1979
- Rio State Championship Top ScorerCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
– 26 goals - Extra Rio State Championship Top ScorerCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
– 34 goals - Brazil's top scorer this season – 89 goals
- Selected in FIFA XI to play against Argentina – Scored 1 goal
- Rio State Championship Top Scorer
- 1980
- Brazilian Championship Top Scorer – 21 goals
- Brazil's top scorer this season – 53 goals
- Silver ball South American Footballer of the YearSouth American Footballer of the YearThe South American Footballer of the Year is an annual association football award presented to the best footballer in South America over the previous calendar year. The award was conceived by Venezuelan newspaper El Mundo, whom awarded it from 1971 to 1985. Uruguayan newspaper El País took over...
- 5th Best Player of the Year – Guerin Esportivo (Italy)
- 1981
- Copa Libertadores Best PlayerCopa Libertadores de AméricaThe Copa Santander Libertadores de América , known simply as the Copa Libertadores and originally known as the Copa Campeones de América , is an annual international club football competition organized by CONMEBOL since 1960...
- Copa Libertadores Top Scorer – 11 goals
- Intercontinental Cup Man of the Match
- South American Footballer of the YearSouth American Footballer of the YearThe South American Footballer of the Year is an annual association football award presented to the best footballer in South America over the previous calendar year. The award was conceived by Venezuelan newspaper El Mundo, whom awarded it from 1971 to 1985. Uruguayan newspaper El País took over...
- World Footballer of the Year – Guerin Esportivo (Italy), El MundoEl Mundo (Venezuela)El Mundo is a Venezuelan evening newspaper.It was launched on 3 February 1958 in Caracas, shortly after the end of the dictatorship of Marcos Pérez Jiménez on 23 January 1958. It was founded by Miguel Ángel Capriles Ayala, who had launched Ultimas Noticias in 1941...
(Venezuela), El Balón (Spain), Placar MagazinePlacarPlacar is a monthly Brazilian sports magazine. Its first edition was issued on March 20, 1970, and since then the it has become the most successful sports publication in Brazil, even though it focuses fully on football . It is published by Grupo Abril....
(Brazil)
- Copa Libertadores Best Player
- 1982
- Rio State Championship Top ScorerCampeonato CariocaThe Campeonato Carioca, also known as Campeonato Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, is the football league of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is one of the most prestigious national football tournaments...
– 21 goals - Bola de Ouro Brazilian Footballer of the YearBola de OuroThe Bola de Ouro is an award given each year, since 1973, by the authoritative Brazilian magazine Placar to the best player in the Brazilian National Championship. It is practically the equivalent to a Footballer of the Year award...
- Bola de Prata Brazilian Championship All-Star TeamBola de PrataThe Bola de Prata is a Primeira Liga award for the top scorer. In case two or more players have the same amount of goals, the award goes to the footballer with the least games played. It was first awarded has a prize in the 1952–53 season by sport newspaper A Bola.-List of winners:...
- Brazilian Championship Top Scorer – 21 goals
- Brazilian Top Scorer of the year – 59 goals
- World Cup Bronze BootFIFA World Cup awardsAt the end of each FIFA World Cup final tournament, several awards are attributed to the players and teams which have distinguished from the rest, in different aspects of the game.These are awards granted during the men's senior tournament...
- World Cup All-Star Team player
- South American Footballer of the YearSouth American Footballer of the YearThe South American Footballer of the Year is an annual association football award presented to the best footballer in South America over the previous calendar year. The award was conceived by Venezuelan newspaper El Mundo, whom awarded it from 1971 to 1985. Uruguayan newspaper El País took over...
- Selected in FIFA XI to play against Europe Team – Scored 1 goal
- 4th Best Player of the Year – World Soccer MagazineWorld Soccer MagazineWorld Soccer is an English language football magazine published by IPC Media. It specialises in the international football scene. Its regular contributing writers include Brian Glanville, Sid Lowe and Tim Vickery. World Soccer is a member of the European Sports Magazines , an umbrella group of...
(England)
- Rio State Championship Top Scorer
- 1983
- World Player of the Year – World Soccer Magazine (England)
- 1984
- Second highest scorer of the Italian League – 19 goals
- Chevron Award (best goal per game ratio in Italian league)
- 3rd Best Player of the Year – World Soccer MagazineWorld Soccer MagazineWorld Soccer is an English language football magazine published by IPC Media. It specialises in the international football scene. Its regular contributing writers include Brian Glanville, Sid Lowe and Tim Vickery. World Soccer is a member of the European Sports Magazines , an umbrella group of...
(England)
- 1987
- Bola de Prata Brazilian Championship All-Star TeamBola de PrataThe Bola de Prata is a Primeira Liga award for the top scorer. In case two or more players have the same amount of goals, the award goes to the footballer with the least games played. It was first awarded has a prize in the 1952–53 season by sport newspaper A Bola.-List of winners:...
- Bola de Prata Brazilian Championship All-Star Team
- 1992
- Japan Soccer LeagueJapan Soccer League, or JSL, was the top flight soccer league in Japan between 1965 and 1992, and was the precursor to the current professional league, the J. League. JSL was the second national league of a team sport in Japan after the professional Japanese Baseball League that was founded in 1936...
record for goals scored in consecutive matches – 11 goals in 10 straight matches
- Japan Soccer League
- 1999
- 3rd best Brazilian player of the 20th century – IFFHS
- IFFHS Players of the 20th centuryFIFA Player of the CenturyFIFA Player of the Century was a one-off award created by FIFA to decide the greatest football player of the 20th century. Pele shared the honour with Diego Maradona...
- 9th Best Player of the 20th century – France FootballFrance FootballFrance Football is a French bi-weekly magazine containing football news from all over the world. It's one of the most reputable sports publications in Europe, mostly because of their photographic reports and accurate statistics of the big European Cup matches, and extensive coverage of the European...
(France) - Greatest Players of the 20th century World SoccerWorld Soccer MagazineWorld Soccer is an English language football magazine published by IPC Media. It specialises in the international football scene. Its regular contributing writers include Brian Glanville, Sid Lowe and Tim Vickery. World Soccer is a member of the European Sports Magazines , an umbrella group of...
(England)
- 2004
- FIFA 100FIFA 100The FIFA 100 is a list of the world-renowned Brazilian striker Pelé's choice of the "greatest living footballers". Unveiled on 4 March 2004 at a gala ceremony in London, the FIFA 100 marked part of the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Fédération Internationale de...
- Hall of the Fame FIFAFIFAThe Fédération Internationale de Football Association , commonly known by the acronym FIFA , is the international governing body of :association football, futsal and beach football. Its headquarters are located in Zurich, Switzerland, and its president is Sepp Blatter, who is in his fourth...
- FIFA 100
- 2010
- 10th Greatest Footballer of All Time – World Soccer Magazine (England)
- All-Time
- Top Scorer in Flamengo's history – 508 goals
- Top Scorer in Maracanã Stadium's history – 333 goals
Beach Soccer
- Beach Soccer World Championship 1995, 1996
- American cup Beach Soccer 1995, 1996
- 1995 Beach Soccer World Championship Top Scorer – 12 goals
- 1995 Beach Soccer World Championship Best Player
Japan
After the 2002 FIFA World Cup2002 FIFA World Cup
The 2002 FIFA World Cup was the 17th staging of the FIFA World Cup, held in South Korea and Japan from 31 May to 30 June. It was also the first World Cup held in Asia, and the last in which the golden goal rule was implemented. Brazil won the tournament for a record fifth time, beating Germany 2–0...
, Japan Football Association
Japan Football Association
The Japan Football Association, sometimes known as the Japan Soccer Association , is the governing body responsible for the administration of association football in Japan. It is responsible for the national team as well as club competitions....
looked for a replacement for the outgoing Philippe Troussier
Philippe Troussier
Philippe Troussier is a former French football player and now a manager.-Coaching career:Troussier is known as the "White Witch Doctor" for his success with African club teams such as Asec Abidjan of the Côte d'Ivoire and the national teams of Nigeria, South Africa and Burkina Faso...
, and chose Zico as his successor. Despite his lack of coaching experience besides his stint as Brazil's technical coordinator during the 1998 World Cup
1998 FIFA World Cup
The 1998 FIFA World Cup, the 16th FIFA World Cup, was held in France from 10 June to 12 July 1998. France was chosen as host nation by FIFA on 2 July 1992. The tournament was won by France, who beat Brazil 3-0 in the final...
, Zico had great understanding of Japanese soccer from his playing days and his role as Kashima's technical director. In addition, JFA had grown tired of Troussier's clashes with the media while the players were frustrated with his micromanagement
Micromanagement
In business management, micromanagement is a management style where a manager closely observes or controls the work of her or his subordinates or employees...
. In contrast, Zico commanded respect from reporters and urged players to express themselves on the pitch.
Although Zico attempted to instill a free-flowing, attacking mentality to the team, his regime got off to an uneven start, which included a 4–1 loss to Argentina
Argentina national football team
The Argentina national football team represents Argentina in association football and is controlled by the Argentine Football Association , the governing body for football in Argentina. Argentina's home stadium is Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti and their head coach is Alejandro...
in 2003. Japan had a respectable showing at that year's Confederations Cup but struggled again in the beginning of 2004, only narrowly beating Oman
Oman national football team
The Oman national football team is the national team of Oman. Although the team was officially founded in 1978, the squad was formed long before, and has established a proper football association in only December, 2005...
in the first stage of qualifying for the 2006 FIFA World Cup
2006 FIFA World Cup
The 2006 FIFA World Cup was the 18th FIFA World Cup, the quadrennial international football world championship tournament. It was held from 9 June to 9 July 2006 in Germany, which won the right to host the event in July 2000. Teams representing 198 national football associations from all six...
and several players were suspended after a drinking incident. Although Japan had not lost in its nine previous matches, he was rumored to be on the verge of resigning and a small group of fans marched in the streets of Tokyo demanding his firing.
He stayed on, however, and won the 2004 Asian Cup despite intimidation from Chinese fans and a team that featured just one European-based player, Shunsuke Nakamura
Shunsuke Nakamura
is a Japanese footballer who currently plays for Yokohama F. Marinos in J. League Division 1. He is one of the most prominent and successful Asian players to have played in Scotland and on 13 September 2006 became the first Japanese player to score in the UEFA Champions League and the second Asian...
. He then helped Japan qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup
2006 FIFA World Cup
The 2006 FIFA World Cup was the 18th FIFA World Cup, the quadrennial international football world championship tournament. It was held from 9 June to 9 July 2006 in Germany, which won the right to host the event in July 2000. Teams representing 198 national football associations from all six...
with just one loss.
Despite the rocky start, injuries to key players and even a bizarre offer from Garforth Town, Zico has led Japan to its third World Cup finals appearance and the third Asian Cup title in four tries. His Japanese team is heavily influenced by Brazil's short passing style, but he has been flexible enough to switch between 4-4-2 and 3–5–2 formations. In addition, he has had a respectable record on European soil, beating Czech Republic
Czech Republic national football team
The Czech Republic national football team represents the Czech Republic in association football and is controlled by the Football Association of the Czech Republic, the governing body for football in the Czech Republic. Their current head coach is Michal Bílek...
and Greece
Greece national football team
The Greece national football team represents Greece in association football and is controlled by the Hellenic Football Federation, the governing body for football in Greece. Greece's home ground is Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus and their head coach is Fernando Santos...
and drawing with England
England national football team
The England national football team represents England in association football and is controlled by the Football Association, the governing body for football in England. England is the joint oldest national football team in the world, alongside Scotland, whom they played in the world's first...
, Brazil
Brazil national football team
The Brazil national football team represents Brazil in international men's football and is controlled by the Brazilian Football Confederation , the governing body for football in Brazil. They are a member of the International Federation of Association Football since 1923 and also a member of the...
and most recently Germany
Germany national football team
The Germany national football team is the football team that has represented Germany in international competition since 1908. It is governed by the German Football Association , which was founded in 1900....
.
However, Japan failed to win a single match at the Finals, losing twice (to Australia and Brazil
Brazil national football team
The Brazil national football team represents Brazil in international men's football and is controlled by the Brazilian Football Confederation , the governing body for football in Brazil. They are a member of the International Federation of Association Football since 1923 and also a member of the...
) and drawing once (to Croatia
Croatia national football team
The Croatia national football team represents Croatia in international football. The team is controlled by the Croatian Football Federation, the governing body for football in the country, and has been managed since 2006 by former player Slaven Bilić...
), and scoring just two goals while conceding seven. He resigned from Japan at the end of the World Cup campaign.
Fenerbahçe
In July 2006, signed a two-year deal with Fenerbahçe. He won the league title in 2007Turkcell Super League 2006-07
The 2006-07 Süper Lig was the 49th edition of the top-flight professional football league in Turkey. The season kicked-off on 4 August 2006 in a match between Ankaraspor and Galatasaray, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Fenerbahçe became champions after drawing Trabzonspor 2-2, while Beşiktaş lost 3-0 to...
and won Turkish Super Cup
Turkish Super Cup
The TFF Süper Kupa, as it is currently known, is the annual super cup football match contested between the previous season's Süper Lig champions and the Turkish Cup winners in Turkey. It was originally known as the Cumhurbaşkanlığı Kupası from 1966 to 1998. No competition was held between 1999 and...
on the first year of his job. Under his command Fenerbahçe has qualified from UEFA Champions League 2007–08 groups stage for the first time of club's history and beat Sevilla FC
Sevilla FC
Sevilla Fútbol Club S.A.D. is a Spanish professional football club based in Seville, Spain that plays in the Spanish La Liga championship.They are one of the most successful clubs in Spanish football having won a 1 La Liga title, 5 Spanish "Copa del Rey" Cups, 1 Spanish Super Cup and 2 UEFA...
to become a quarter-finalist in 2007–08 season. So far, he also is the team's most successful manager in the history of the European arena.
Zico was given a new nickname by Fenerbahçe fans: Kral Arthur (meaning "King Arthur" in Turkish). For the team's nickname King Arthur and his Knights. In a chat hosted by uefa.com he pointed out that it is unlikely he will sign a contract extension with Fenerbahçe. This was confirmed on 10 June 2008 when he resigned as Fenerbahce manager.
On 8 September 2008, Zico revealed that he would be interested taking over the vacant managers position at Newcastle United following the resignation of Kevin Keegan. He is quoted saying "The Newcastle job is one that I would be very interested in taking. It would be a privilege and an honour, I've always wanted to experience the Premier League as I believe I could enjoy much success coaching in England." He also commented that he isn't bothered about the structure of the board at Newcastle United, "I am used to working alongside technical directors so this isn't an issue for me. It's normal for me to work in those conditions."
Bunyodkor, CSKA Moscow and Olympiakos C.F.P
In 2008, he coached FC BunyodkorFC Bunyodkor
FC Bunyodkor is an Uzbek football club based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.The club finished second in the 2007 Uzbek League season and made the semi-finals of the 2008 AFC Champions League...
in Uzbekistan, where he won the Uzbekistani Cup
Uzbekistani Cup
-Previous champions:All champions as Uzbek SSR in Soviet times:These are all the Uzbek champions since the country's independence in 1992.-Performance by club:-1992:-1993:-1994:-1995:-1996:-1997:-1998:-2000:-2001:-2002:-2003:...
and the Uzbek League
Uzbek League
The Uzbekistan Professional Football League , is the top division of football in Uzbekistan, and is operated under the auspices of the Uzbekistan Football Federation.-Soviet time champions:*1926 : FC Tashkent*1927 : FC Tashkent*1928 : FC Fergana...
. He subsequently took over at Russian side CSKA Moscow but was fired on 10 September 2009.
Less than a week later Zico signed a 2-year contract with Olympiacos F.C.. Despite the absence of numerous first-team players due to injuries, he led the Greek club to a comfortable 2nd place in Group H of the Champions League, earning the qualification to the knockout stage
2009–10 UEFA Champions League knockout stage
The knockout phase of the 2009–10 UEFA Champions League began on 16 February 2010 and concluded on 22 May 2010 with the final won by Internazionale against Bayern Munich 2–0 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid...
. In the Greek Superleague
Super League Greece
The Superleague Greece is the highest professional football league in Greece. It was formed on July 16, 2006 and replaced Alpha Ethniki at the top of the Greek football league system. The league consists of 16 teams and runs from August to May, with teams playing 30 games each...
his first results were also impressive, but the success lasted only till early winter and the fans started to complain about both the results and the playing style of the team. And they were ready to use violence against him (or his team) in order to achieve their ends. Finally on 19 January 2010, after a negative series of 4 matches with just one win, though his team lost only two times (twelve wins and four draws) in the Greek Superleague
Super League Greece
The Superleague Greece is the highest professional football league in Greece. It was formed on July 16, 2006 and replaced Alpha Ethniki at the top of the Greek football league system. The league consists of 16 teams and runs from August to May, with teams playing 30 games each...
, Zico was sacked.
Back to Flamengo
On 30 May of 2010, Zico announced that he would become the new Soccer Executive/Director for Flamengo, coming back to the team where he won his most important honors after 25 years. One of his demands is that his salary won't be paid by the club. Instead, it will be paid by Flamengo's sponsors such as Olympikus and BMG. His contract is for four years.Iraq
Iraqi sports officials say they are in talks with former Brazilian star Zico to coach the national team.The head of the Iraqi Football Association, Najeh Hamoud, said on Friday that negotiations on contract terms will start as soon as Zico comes to Baghdad
Baghdad
Baghdad is the capital of Iraq, as well as the coterminous Baghdad Governorate. The population of Baghdad in 2011 is approximately 7,216,040...
. Zico confirmed he has reached a deal to coach the Iraqi national team. He was signed a contract with Iraq Football Federation on 28 August 2011 and began his managing career with the Iraq national team in a match against Jordan
Jordan national football team
The Jordan national football team is the national team of Jordan and is controlled by the Jordan Football Association...
on 2 September 2011.
Honours as a manager
- JapanJapan national football teamThe Japan national football team represents Japan in association football and is operated by the Japan Football Association, the governing body for association football in Japan...
Japan
- Asian Cup: 2004
- Fenerbahçe
Turkey
- Süper Lig: 2006–07
- Turkish Super CupTurkish Super CupThe TFF Süper Kupa, as it is currently known, is the annual super cup football match contested between the previous season's Süper Lig champions and the Turkish Cup winners in Turkey. It was originally known as the Cumhurbaşkanlığı Kupası from 1966 to 1998. No competition was held between 1999 and...
: 2007
- BunyodkorFC BunyodkorFC Bunyodkor is an Uzbek football club based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.The club finished second in the 2007 Uzbek League season and made the semi-finals of the 2008 AFC Champions League...
Uzbekistan
- Uzbekistani CupUzbekistani Cup-Previous champions:All champions as Uzbek SSR in Soviet times:These are all the Uzbek champions since the country's independence in 1992.-Performance by club:-1992:-1993:-1994:-1995:-1996:-1997:-1998:-2000:-2001:-2002:-2003:...
: 2008 - Uzbek LeagueUzbek LeagueThe Uzbekistan Professional Football League , is the top division of football in Uzbekistan, and is operated under the auspices of the Uzbekistan Football Federation.-Soviet time champions:*1926 : FC Tashkent*1927 : FC Tashkent*1928 : FC Fergana...
: 2008
- Uzbekistani Cup
- CSKA Moscow
Russia
- Russian Super CupRussian Super CupThe Russian Super Cup is a one-match football annual competition. Its official sponsored name is TransTeleCom Russian Supercup . The two participating clubs are holders of the Russian Premier League champions title and the Russian Cup...
: 20092009 Russian Super CupThe 2009 Russian Super Cup was the 7th Russian Super Cup match, a football match which was contested between the Russian Premier League 2008 champion, Rubin Kazan, and the winner of Russian Cup 2007-08, CSKA Moscow. The match was held on 7 March 2009 at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia... - Russian Cup: 2008–09Russian Cup 2008–09The Russian Cup 2008–09 is the seventeenth season of the Russian football knockout tournament since the dissolution of Soviet Union. The competition started on April 16, 2008 and finished with the Final held in spring 2009. The defending champions were CSKA Moscow.-Preliminary round:This round...
- Russian Super Cup
Personal life
Zico is the grandson of Fernando Antunes Coimbra (paternal grandfather) and Arthur Ferreira da Costa Silva (maternal grandfather), both Portuguese. His father José Antunes Coimbra also born in Portugal. José came to Brazil at age of 10. Zico's mother, Matilde Ferreira da Silva Costa, was born in 1919, 18 years younger than José. Zico was the youngest child, after Zezé, Zeca, Nando, EduEduardo Antunes Coimbra
Eduardo Antunes Coimbra , better known as Edu, is a former Brazilian footballer who played as an attacking midfielder and went on to become a manager.- Background :...
and Tunico. He is named after Arthur, his maternal grandfather by mother Matilde. Zico married Sandra Carvalho de Sá in 1975 , sister of Sueli, wife of Edu. He has three son, Arthur Jr., Bruno and Thiago.
External links
- Zico’s official website
- zico in the goals totality
- Russia fan’s club Zico
- Zico: Goals First Division
- Prolific Scorers Data
- Zico goals of the Brazilian team
- Zico: The Movie
- Zico na rede: The Movie
- Profil on TFF.org
- Brazilian 20th century in sports
- Brazilian Football Museum Hall of Fame
- Brazilian footballer of the year - Bola de ouro / Bola de prata
- Brazilian gunners
- The Best Brazilian player in Italy
- South American Player of the Year
- Jornal do Brasil newspapers 5º Footballer of the Year - " Guerin Sportivo " Magazine 1980
- World Footballer of the Year - "Guerin Sportivo Magazine" 1981
- FIFA Awards - World Cup 1982
- FIFA Awards - ten best players in world cup 1982
- "World Soccer" - 4º Footballer of the Year 1982
- "World Soccer" - Footballer of the Year 1983
- "World Soccer" - 3º Footballer of the Year 1984
- Greatest Brazilian player of century
- South America Player of the Century
- Player of the Century " France Football"
- The Greatest Footballers of All-Time "World soccer"
- The World's best Player of the Century "IFFHS"
- "The Best of The Best"
- All-Time World Squad "World soccer"
- Hall of the fame FIFA
- Zico statistics "FIFA World Cup
- Golden foot Legends
- official website Udinese tribute to Zico "Pour sa maestà Zico"
- Zico matter, at the height of his career magazine Veja
- Tribute to 50 years of Zico, with interviews and testimonials
- Tribute Site Globo.com by 25 years of winning the World Interclubes
- Zico Legends
- Youtube, Zico goals
- Zico’s Profile