In a solemn tribute to one of its most illustrious sons, Brazil, led by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, has declared three days of national mourning to honor the legacy of Mario Zagallo.
The football legend, admired for his extraordinary journey from player to coach, passed away at the venerable age of 92. His demise, as announced by the Barra D’Or Hospital in Rio de Janeiro, came after a valiant struggle with multiple health issues, culminating in organ failure.
READ MORE
+ + EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW – Guilherme Madruga talks about Puskás nomination and next plans
+ + Football world says goodbye to Zagallo in Brazil
+ + Endrick is part of the 2023 U-20 dream team chosen by IFFHS
Zagallo’s impact on the world of football was profound and far-reaching. A testament to his extraordinary skills and strategic acumen, he was praised by the highest echelons of the football world, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who lauded him as a tactical genius.
“The story of the FIFA World Cup cannot be told without Mário Zagallo.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has paid tribute to the great Mário Zagallo, following the Brazilian legend’s passing at the age of 92.
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) January 6, 2024
His unique position in football history, having claimed the World Cup as both a player and a coach, placed him in an elite group alongside greats like Franz Beckenbauer and Didier Deschamps.
The first person to win the World Cup as both a manager and as a player. 🏆🏆🏆🏆
A #FIFAWorldCup legend in every sense.
Rest in peace, Mário Zagallo. 💛💚 pic.twitter.com/AWmOvxQKSa
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) January 6, 2024
Zagallo’s path to football stardom was unconventional. Initially dreaming of a career as an airline pilot, his vision impairment led him down a different path, intertwining his destiny with football. Despite societal skepticism about the sport at the time, he balanced his work in accountancy with his passion for football, playing for local side America. His journey was marked by a pivotal decision to shift from left midfield to left wing, a move that would shape his future and that of Brazilian football.
His illustrious career spanned several clubs, including Flamengo and Botafogo, where he not only showcased his talents but also collected numerous accolades. His first World Cup appearance in 1958 in Sweden, alongside the likes of Garrincha and a young Pele, marked the beginning of an era of dominance for Brazilian football.
As Brazil mourns the loss of this iconic figure, a flood of tributes has come from clubs where he left an indelible mark, including Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Vasco. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has called for a minute’s silence at upcoming matches in his memory. A public wake and burial, scheduled at the CBF headquarters and the esteemed Sao Joao Batista cemetery, stand as a testimony to his revered status in the nation.
