Mario Zagallo, who won two World Cups as a player, one as a coach and another as an assistant coach for Brazil, has died aged 92.
The first person to win the World Cup both as a player and a manager, Zagallo is for many Brazilian football fans synonymous with patriotism, grit and glory.
Brazilian football confederation president Ednaldo Rodrigues said in a statement in the early hours of Saturday that Zagallo “is one of the biggest legends” of the sport.
No cause of death was released by the federation or his family.
“We offer solidarity to his family members and fans in this moment of grief for the departure of this great hero of our soccer,” Mr Rodrigues said. Several Brazilian clubs where Zagallo played and coached also expressed their sorrow for his death.
Zagallo’s social media channels called him “a dedicated father, a loving grandfather, a caring father-in-law, a loyal friend, a victorious professional and a great human being.”
“A gigantic hero. A patriot that leaves us a legacy of great achievements,” tribute posts read.
***Agency reports