With the arrival of the Legendary Brazilian
footballer Arthur Antunes Coimbra, better known as Zico or ‘White Pele’ in the
state, a new era of football is on the horizon. One of the greatest footballers
of his era, he brings with him the Brazilian flair coupled with top flight
experience from all over the world.
One thing is for sure, the Brazilian will
bring in the much needed professionalism to Indian football.
During his last visit to India, the
All-India Football Federation (AIFF) wanted the Brazilian to pass on some tips
for the development of youth soccer in the country. However, due to his two day
visit, that was not possible. With Zico in India for almost 3 months, the AIFF
may try again as Shrinivas Dempo, co-owner FC Goa, also happens to be the Vice
President of AIFF and if Zico obliges, than a miracle can be expected at the
hands of Zico, especially with the U-17 World Cup a couple of years away.
He was one of the most skilled dribblers
and finishers ever and possibly the world’s best player of the early 80s. Zico
played for Brazil in the 1978, 1982 and 1986 World Cups, and scored 66 goals in
88 matches. He is often considered one of the best players in football history
to have never been on a World Cup winning squad.
