Zico: The Story of the “Galinho de Quintino”

Arthur Antunes Coimbra, better known as Zico, was born on March 3, 1953, in the neighborhood of Quintino Bocaiúva in Rio de Janeiro’s North Zone. From a young age, football was a central part of his life, and he quickly began to stand out in street matches and futsal courts in his neighborhood.

Zico was the youngest in a family passionate about football. His brothers, Antunes and Edu, also played professionally, but it was the “Galinho de Quintino” (Little Rooster of Quintino), as he was affectionately called, who captured the hearts of Cariocas (residents of Rio de Janeiro) and, later, the world.

Origin of the Nickname “Zico”

The nickname “Zico” originated in his childhood when Arthur was lovingly called “Arthurzico” by his family. Over time, “Arthurzico” was shortened to “Zico,” and the name stuck with him throughout his career.

Youth Career and Rise at Flamengo

At the age of 14, Zico joined Flamengo’s youth academy, the club that would become the great passion of his life. His early career was marked by challenges. Zico was frail, and many doubted his chances of success in professional football. However, with dedication and a rigorous physical training program, he overcame his physical limitations and stood out in the club’s youth categories.

In 1971, at 18, Zico made his debut for Flamengo’s first team. Right from the start, he displayed a unique talent, with a sense of positioning, vision, and free-kick ability that quickly made him one of the most promising players in Brazilian football.

The Flamengo Idol

From 1974 onwards, Zico donned Flamengo’s iconic number 10 shirt and began to build his legend. Under his leadership, the club experienced the “Zico Era,” one of the most glorious periods in its history. Between 1978 and 1983, Flamengo won significant titles, including the Brazilian Championship, the Copa Libertadores, and the Intercontinental Cup.

During these golden years, Zico played alongside great players who helped build the club’s success. Among his main teammates were the skilled full-backs Junior and Leandro, Adílio, a highly technical midfielder who had great chemistry with Zico, and Nunes, a decisive striker. Together, they formed a team that achieved unforgettable triumphs.

Zico was the team’s top scorer and leader, scoring 509 goals in 731 official matches wearing Flamengo’s shirt. His ability to take free kicks and his vision of the game made him one of the most respected and admired players in world football.

European Journey and Return to Flamengo

In 1983, Zico transferred to Udinese in Italy, where he quickly became a key player. Despite playing for a lesser-known team, Zico shone in Serie A and almost won the league’s top scorer title in his first season. However, injury problems limited his time in Europe.

Zico returned to Flamengo in 1985, where he continued to thrill the fans. Despite a severe knee injury that sidelined him for a long time, he recovered and returned to play at a high level, winning more titles with the Rio de Janeiro club before retiring in 1989.

Career with the Brazilian National Team

Zico also had a standout career with the Brazilian national team. He debuted in 1976 and participated in three World Cups (1978, 1982, and 1986). Although he was one of the great stars of the “Seleção Canarinho,” Zico never won a World Cup, which is considered by many as one of football’s greatest injustices.

Even without a world title, Zico scored 48 goals in 71 matches for the national team (according to FIFA’s records), remaining one of Brazil’s top scorers to this day.

Retirement and Career as a Coach

After ending his playing career, Zico stayed involved in football in various roles. In 1990, he was appointed Brazil’s National Sports Secretary, where he worked on creating the “Zico Law,” which introduced significant reforms in Brazilian sports, giving more autonomy to players.

After this period as an administrator, Zico decided to play again in 1991, accepting an invitation to play in Japan. There, he helped popularize football in the country and was instrumental in the creation and growth of Kashima Antlers, a club that would become one of the most successful in the J-League. His influence was so profound that he is still revered in Japan today.

After retiring as a player, Zico embraced the challenge of becoming a coach. He managed teams in various countries, such as Japan, Turkey, Russia, and Uzbekistan, winning important titles and leaving his mark everywhere he went. Although he did not achieve the same level of individual success as a player, Zico established himself as a respected and influential coach, known for his tactical intelligence and passion for football.

Zico and His Role in Flamengo’s Growing Fanbase

Zico was not just a great player; he was also crucial in expanding and solidifying Flamengo’s fanbase throughout Brazil. During the “Zico Era,” Flamengo became the club with the largest fanbase in the country, and Maracanã Stadium, the site of so many of his triumphs, became the “home” for millions of Flamengo fans.

His charisma, combined with his success on the field, helped turn Flamengo into one of the world’s most powerful football brands. To this day, Zico is seen as a symbol of the club and its passionate supporters, revered by generations of fans.

Zico is undoubtedly one of the greatest idols in Brazilian and world football. His career is marked by talent, dedication, and love for the sport. From the skinny kid in Quintino to the star who captivated the world, Zico left an eternal legacy at Flamengo and in football as a whole.