Football legend Zico set to visit Manila

Zico for the Selecao

This weekend, one of the football greats from the 20th century will be headed to Manila.

Arthur Antunes Coimbra, more recognized in the football world as Zico, is slated to visit Manila on January 27-28.

His appearance in the country is through the assistance of Seven Seas Properties, which promotes Filipino properties and investments in Japan. According to its President, Yukihiro Nishimura, "We are delighted to welcome Zico to the Philippines. I'm sure he will give a big boost to the growing football scene here."

Coming to prominence in the late 70s to early 80s, Zico is a retired Brazilian international who scored 48 goals in 71 appearances. He finished 8th in the FIFA Player of the Century grand jury vote in 1999, and was included in the list of the world's greatest living players by FIFA in 2004.

He also played for iconic Brazilian club side Flamengo, as well as Italian Serie A side Udinese, before finishing his playing career with the Kashima Antlers in Japan.

Zico then entered into managing, helping the likes of Fenerbahce, Olympiacos, and CSKA Moscow to titles in their respective leagues. He also solidified his iconic status in Japanese football by taking the Samurai Blue to the AFC Asian Cup title in 2004.

His presence in Manila is highlighted by two activities. On Saturday, January 27, he will be attending a CSR event with young footballers from underprivileged communities. Then on Sunday, January 28, he will conduct and oversee a football clinic for elite young players and coaches at the McKinley-Hill Stadium in Taguig.

Aside from Seven Seas Properties, Zico's presence here in Manila is also made possible by Otsuka - Solar Philippines, Inter Sports Partners, AgriNurture, and Primex.