On December 28, 2024, the legendary Zico hosted the 20th edition of the Jogo das Estrelas, or Game of Stars, at the iconic Maracanã Stadium, where the world of football celebrated its legends. This year’s event included tributes, friendly matches, and heartfelt stories shared by some of the most prominent former players.
Zico, known as the greatest idol of Flamengo, expressed his thoughts on the evolution of the sport and the importance of leadership. When discussing Filipe Luís, the new coach of Flamengo and former teammate, Zico praised his ability to separate personal friendships from professional responsibilities. “You cannot be friends with anyone. You cannot relinquish your command and must follow your convictions, whether right or wrong, it’s your head on the line,” Zico stated during his interview with SporTV.
The day was not just about play but about reminiscing and honoring fallen heroes, particularly Adílio, another Flamengo legend who passed away earlier this year. It was these moments and reflections on camaraderie and respect within the sport which made the day so special.
Among the guests was Michel Salgado, the former Real Madrid player who traveled 15 hours from Dubai to partake in the festivities. "Zico is my idol; I cheered for Brazil back in 1982,” Salgado said, excitement palpable as he prepared to step onto the field. He recalled how, as a child, he dreamed of meeting Zico and now stood shoulder to shoulder with him, sharing the Maracanã pitch.
Salgado has attended the Jogo das Estrelas three times but had never participated. He was thrilled to finally take part, reminiscing, “Who could have imagined, at the age of seven, I would ever share minutes with Zico on the Maracanã?” He emphatically acknowledged the event’s emotional significance and connection to their shared history.
Yet, the day wasn’t without reflection on the current state of Flamengo. Zico had some candid words about the recent departure of Gabigol, Flamengo's former striker, whose contract concluded close to the event. “It was all poorly handled. An idol like him shouldn’t have left the way he did,” Zico remarked, acknowledging how the club's management failed to support him during contractual negotiations.
Gabigol, who had played his last game for Flamengo on December 8, was recognized by Zico for his contributions, emphasizing the 13 titles Gabigol secured during his tenure, including the prestigious Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro titles. It was particularly touching when Zico shared the gesture of receiving Gabigol's boots from his final match as a token of respect and friendship.
The spirit of the Jogo das Estrelas embodies more than the competition; it serves as a reunion of footballing minds and narratives from different generations. Zico's remarks to other participants included advice to Alex, the former Cruzeiro star now transitioning to coaching. He urged him to utilize everything he learned from illustrious coaches during his playing days. “He must put to practice what he learned,” Zico advised, wishing Alex success wherever he felt most comfortable coaching.
While Zico took the spotlight, the event allowed many players, from Salgado to Alex, to reminisce and pay homage to the paths they forged together on the turf. Salgado, addressing expectations for his performance, joked, “You can expect little; I’m dead (laughs). But the most important thing is Zico's celebration.”
The atmosphere was electric, as fans filled the stadium, eagerly awaiting the showcase of talent and the jovial spirit of football. The shared laughter, stories, and pride among these athletes reminded all why the sport holds such significance across generations, societies, and nations.
Through events like the Jogo das Estrelas, Zico reinforces not just his legacy but also the fabric of football culture, binding its community with joy and memories. The event is not merely about the game; it encapsulates love for football, illustrating how it fosters connections long after players have hung up their boots.
