Legendary Brazilian footballer Zico arrived here today to take charge of Football Club Goa as head coach for the high-profile Indian Super League which begins of October 12.
The 61-year-old Arthur Antunes Coimbra, nicknamed 'White Pele', reached Goa along with former Dempo midfielder Roberto Mendis Silva and received at the airport by former All India Football Federation General Secretary Alberto Colaco.
Zico mesmerized the world of football in the early 1970s and late 80s, scoring 48 goals in 71 international appearances for Brazil. He is the fourth highest goal scorer for his national team.
Zico had visited the country way back in 2004 as the coach of Japanese national team which played against India in Kolkata. He is the biggest catch of the ISL.
With the Brazillian tactician having arrived today, the FC Goa players are expected to start training later this week after detailed discussions with the owners and coaching staff.
Zico will be assisted by Dempo Sports Club head coach, Australian Arthur Papas.
Six foreign players -- Jan Seda, Miroslav Slepicka, Bruno Pinheiro, Miguel Herlein, Edgar Marcelino and Gregory Arnolin -- arrived yesterday.
French defender Youness Bengeiloun will join the squad once he gets all the clearances.
Marquee player Robert Pires will arrive here on September 23 when the Goa franchise of ISL launches jersey and presents its star singings in Mumbai.
