BRAZILIAN cult hero Adriano was paraded through the streets as an “Emperor” during a wild Sao Paulo carnival.
The former striker, who won Copa America leading the line for his country, was the main man again this weekend in the spectacular scenes in his homeland.
Adriano, who turns 42, enjoyed great success on the pitch and was called the “Emperor of Milan” during his heyday leading the line for Inter.
And local school Camisa Verde e Branco wanted to honour him as part of their “Adenla – The emperor in the king’s lands” tribute at the Anhembi Sambadrome festival.
Their incredible float, which came with huge pillars, a float and a palace-like set-up along with Adriano stood dancing at the front in a crown, also had numerous dancers decked out in Brazil kits along the side.
It was a combined tribute to both African kings and the ex football superstar, who was dressed in an impressive white robe.
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The parade was described as a combination of both history and football as it told the story of historic figures Oxossi, Piye, Emperor Mansa Musa and then Adriano himself.
Adriano looked to be having the time of his life as the huge crowd cheered his dance moves.
And afterwards he shared several photos and clips from the festival on Instagram and wrote: “Thank you @camisaverdeweb ! A lot of emotion. Crown made by @claudiakechichian.”
Adriano won four Serie A titles with Inter and two Campeonato Brasileiro trophies, won at Flamengo and Corinthians, back in Brazil during his playing days.
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He last played professionally for Miami United in 2016 but has endured a turbulent number of years both on and off the pitch.
The hotshot revealed how he began drinking heavily following the death of his father while he was in Italy and was then accused of drug trafficking in 2010, charges which he was cleared of in 2014.
Then, after a number of concerns about his health, Adriano was even forced to deny rumours of his death in 2020.
Last year he sold his £1.2m home and moved into a £10k-a-month five-star hotel room – leaving everything behind but his medals.
It is believed the ex-Roma player invested in a nearby beachside property, following his hotel stay.
Adriano played alongside stars such as Kaka and Ronaldinho for Brazil, scoring 27 times in 48 caps, but last represented them in 2010.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
