Zico's talent immortalized. The greatest idol in Flamengo's history has been honored with a statue in the Maracanã Hall of Fame. The statue, created by set designer Abel Gomes, was unveiled Saturday night. In it, he performs a volley. The image gives the impression that the former player is in mid-air. 

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At a private event, the star's family and friends were able to view the statue. This Sunday, before the All-Star Game hosted by Galinho, which begins at 17 p.m., it will be available to the general public.

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"The statue reminds me a lot of a goal I scored in the '82 World Cup against New Zealand. It's approved," said Zico, who on that occasion helped Brazil win the final group game of the World Cup in Spain 4-0.

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Zico, now the coach of Olympiacos in Greece, is Maracanã's all-time top scorer, with 333 goals in 435 matches. He has also left his mark on the stadium's Walk of Fame. During the inauguration, he became very emotional during his speech and made a point of remembering his father and older brother, both named Antunes, who have since passed away.

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"I wish my brother and father were here with us right now. But they are blessing this moment from up there," said Rooster.

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Flamengo's greatest idol took the opportunity to recall the first time he stepped onto the Maracanã pitch.
 
"Forty years ago, I stepped onto the stadium's pitch for the first time. We arrived two hours before the game to enter the field. I took off my sneakers and put my foot on the Maracanã pitch. I remember Mr. Lima—if I'm not mistaken, he was the one who took care of the pitch—shouting for us to leave the place. Years later, people called me the Maracanã player. Who wouldn't want to be called that?" Zico revealed.

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Former Brazilian national team player and assistant coach Jorginho, singer Sandra de Sá, musician Ivo Meirelles, and model and former BBB Priscila attended the event.