Today is a special day for the greatest idol in the history of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo. Zico turns 03.03 this Wednesday (March 57). And the one who gets the gift is you, internet user. Arthur Antunes Coimbra was at the club on the eve of his birthday and spoke with the team at Flamengo's official website.

In an exclusive chat, Zico talks about his family, unforgettable moments in the red-and-black jersey, and praises the club's current squad. According to him, the attacking duo of Adriano and Vagner Love has everything it takes to succeed, and the Emperor is a player capable of leading this group in its quest for a second Copa Libertadores title.

Check out the full interview below:

Flamengo Official Website: You not only played, but also won the Libertadores and scored two goals in the final. What can you say about that championship?
Zico: The Libertadores is a different kind of championship, with a lot of intensity. It's certainly not like the past, but it's a tough tournament. Despite that, I think the team has quality, and they have a coach who understands the competition well, and that can be a big help.

Site: What is your most memorable game in the competition?
Zico: I remember a few matches, but those finals were undoubtedly memorable. Both the Santiago and Montevideo games were great. Fortunately, I was able to score goals in the final and help the team win the title.

Site: What about that rivalry between Flamengo and Atlético Mineiro in the 80s? Do you remember those decisive duels against Galo?
Zico: The rivalry with Atlético was also memorable. That game at Serra Dourada is unforgettable. Many people think we like winning like that, but we don't. We wanted to win with the ball! I'd never seen that in football. Wright called me and the Galo captain, I think it was Chicão, to the middle of the field and told the teams to take it easy. He warned that the next hard tackle would get him sent off. Reinaldo ended up sliding me in and was sent off. That's when it all started.

Site: Tell us a little about Claudio Coutinho, who was the great commander of that team.
Zico: Coutinho was a great coach. Many people say that team played alone, but that's not the case. It wasn't just the players' instincts. There was a lot of hard work too. One thing he always emphasized was what he called the spider's web. The team would stay compact, let the opponent get closer, and then press in to steal the ball.

Site: And what about Carpeggiani, who played with you and soon after became the team's coach?
Zico: Carpeggiani was a guy who, until recently, was playing alongside us. We always talked. I remember Junior saying this very clearly: "The guy was right here alongside us. Now it's time for us to run a little for him too."

Website: You're eagerly awaiting the birth of another grandchild. How is the family preparing for the arrival of another heir?
Zico: The expectation is great, and it just depends on the lady. But I think it's unlikely she'll be born tomorrow. It should be around the 10th. She's already been feeling some twinges, but she might have to wait a little longer.

Website: You reunited with your friends from the 1981 team in Gávea on the eve of your birthday. What was that reunion like?
Zico: It was a great gift to meet them. We've created a strong bond of friendship, and it's always great when everyone gets together. It's always great to talk about football and reminisce about our time together. I'm sure this will last forever. This group has always been very close, on and off the field. These reunions prove it.

Website: What are the plans for this anniversary?
Zico: We're just going to have a family dinner. Just to make sure it doesn't go unnoticed. We were looking forward to my grandson's birth, so I didn't plan anything. However, it's practically decided for next week. Then we'll all go out together to celebrate. After all, it's been a long time since we've had a birthday here.

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Website: You've also become a symbol of solidarity initiatives, such as the Jogo das Estrelas (Star Game) and the Rede de Escolinhas (Little Schools Network) you launched in Quintino. What's your assessment of these projects? 
Zico: The All-Star Game has been a real success, and I really enjoy being there, playing with great athletes, and also helping people in need. The social project in Quintino was a way to give back to the community where I grew up. I'm also very pleased with the results. It's a chance to develop not only players but also citizens.

Website: What did you think of Fla's debut in the Libertadores?
Zico: It was a good debut; Flamengo demonstrated its capabilities in a time of adversity by losing a player early on. The team had the composure to secure the victory by playing well. A good debut always provides greater peace of mind.

Website: Flamengo's number 10 jersey was etched in history by you, and now it belongs to Adriano. What do you have to say about the Emperor?
Zico: I'm very happy to see Adriano reconnect with football, with the Flamengo fans, and with the national team. I'm pleased to see him on the Flamengo team. I believe Adriano has everything it takes to make history here and be a huge help to the team. This is a moment he must seize. He understands the responsibility he has, and I know he can be a significant contributor to winning the Copa Libertadores.

Site: And what about his duo with Vagner Love, the so-called Empire of Love? Do you think it will work?
Zico: They're both great players. Love has worked with me before and is a great professional. He's adapted well to Rio, and I'm sure he'll bring a lot of joy to Flamengo fans.

Site: They're all huge fans of yours and always talk about you as an idol. How do you feel about this recognition? 
Zico: It's great to receive this recognition, without a doubt. I'm very happy with all the tributes.

Website: How important is it for a team to identify with the Flamengo jersey? Is this essential for success in the Libertadores?
Zico: It's crucial that the team has players who identify with the club. Our team was like that, and this one is too. I believe they have a lot of potential to win the Copa Libertadores, which is the club's main goal this year.

Site: Is Andrade "the guy" to lead Flamengo to this title?
Zico: Andrade is a great teammate, a friend I've made on and off the field. He began his coaching career at CFZ. I'm thrilled for his success, I believe in him, and I'm rooting for him to win this title.