Biography
Who is Zico?
Early life and real name
Zico was born with the full name Arthur Antunes Coimbra on March 3, 1953, in the working-class neighbourhood of Quintino Bocaiuva in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Growing up in a family of Portuguese descent alongside his siblings, including Edu Coimbra, he displayed exceptional footballing skills from a very early age. Playing street futsal and local matches against older children, he quickly gained attention for his talent and technical abilities on the pitch.
His famous nickname evolved from the childhood endearment Arthurzinho, passing through Arthurzico and Tuzico before finally becoming Zico. At age fourteen, after scoring nine goals in a single match for River Futebol Clube, a radio reporter directed his father to arrange a trial with Clube de Regatas do Flamengo. Through hard work, a special diet, and an intensive muscle development program, he built the physical foundation required for professional success.
Career highlights
Zico established himself as the greatest player in the history of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, leading the team to victory in the 1981 Copa Libertadores and the 1981 Intercontinental Cup. He also secured four national titles with the club in 1980, 1982, 1983, and 1987, finishing his career there as their top goalscorer with 508 goals across 731 matches. Well-known for his exceptional free kicks and vision, he earned global acclaim during his playing days.
In 1983, he transferred to Italian club Udinese Calcio, where he scored 19 goals in his first Serie A season and earned the 1983 Player of the Year award by World Soccer Magazine. Later in his career, he moved to Japan to play for Kashima Antlers, helping establish the J1 League before transitioning into coaching roles with teams like the Japan national team, Fenerbahçe, and CSKA Moscow.
International career
Representing the Brazil men's national football team, Zico earned 71 official appearances and scored 48 goals, making him the fifth highest goalscorer in the history of his national team. He played in the 1978, 1982, and 1986 FIFA World Cups. Although his national side did not capture the trophy during those tournaments, the 1982 squad remains widely regarded as one of the greatest teams in the history of the World Cup.
Beyond his playing days for Brazil, he later managed the Japan national team at the 2006 FIFA World Cup after winning the 2004 Asian Cup with the squad. His extensive managerial career also included coaching spells with Olympiacos and the Iraq national team, alongside working as a technical director at Kashima Antlers.
Family and personal life
Zico was born to father José Antunes Coimbra and grew up alongside his brother Edu Coimbra, who also pursued a professional football career. In his personal life, he raised children named Thiago Coimbra and Arthur Antunes Coimbra Junior. Standing at a height of 172 cm, he maintained a dedicated approach to physical conditioning throughout his athletic career.
Outside of playing and coaching football, he has engaged in various professional pursuits, including working as a blogger and a beach soccer player. He also briefly served as the Minister of Sports under Brazilian president Fernando Collor de Mello, contributing to sports business legislation before returning to football in Japan.
Birthday and age
Zico was born on March 3, 1953, which makes Zico 73 years old today. That birthday falls under the Pisces sign. Zico shares the date with 37 other famous people.
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