Mário Zagallo

Mário Jorge Lobo Zagallo is the greatest winner in the history of FIFA World Cups. The only professional to conquer the world title as a player (1958 and 1962) and as a coach (1970), Zagallo also won a third trophy as a technical assistant in 1994, completing an absolutely singular trajectory in world football. Born in Maceió, Alagoas, on August 9, 1931, Zagallo stood out as an intelligent, hardworking and technically skilled left-winger. At Flamengo and Botafogo, he consolidated his reputation as a disciplined player with great tactical vision, characteristics that would later define his style as a coach. As a coach, Zagallo took charge of the Brazilian National Team in 1970 and led the team to the World Cup in Mexico with a style of football that to this day is considered the most beautiful in history. With Pelé, Rivelino, Jairzinho, Gérson and Tostão, Brazil overwhelmed all opponents and raised the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently. Deceased on January 5, 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, Zagallo left an eternal legacy to Brazilian and world football. His nickname, the 'Old Wolf', reflected the wisdom and perspicacity of a man who dedicated his entire life to the sport he loved.