FORMER Barcelona player Marinho Peres has died aged 76.
The former defender played for Brazil in the 1974 World Cup and earned admiration from the legendary Johan Cruyff with his performances.
Peres signed for Barcelona after the tournament and spent two years at the Nou Camp.
He spent the majority of his 16-year playing career in Brazil and won 15 caps for the national team.
Peres played alongside Brazil legend Pele at Santos between 1972-74, where he won the Campeonato Paulista – the top flight division in the state of Sao Paulo.
The former centre-back also had spells at Internacional, Portuguesa and Sao Bento, where he started his career.
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After his playing career ended Peres moved into coaching and managed 13 different clubs, including Santos twice.
He also had four stints in charge of Belenenses, winning the Portuguese domestic cup during his first spell in 1989.
Peres also won silverware as manager of Botafogo in 1997 – the Taca Guanabara, a Rio de Janeiro regional tournament.
Tributes have poured in for Peres from members of his family, fans and former clubs.
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Internacional shared a statement which reads: “Clube do Povo receives with deep regret the news of Marinho Peres’ passing. An Inter athlete in 1976 and 1977, the defender was an absolute starter in winning the second Brasileirão in Colorado’s history.
“We wish strength to friends and family. 🖤”
Sporting Lisbon, who Peres managed between 1990-92, wrote: “Sporting Clube de Portugal expresses its regret at the death of Marinho Peres, who passed away on Monday at the age of 76.
“A former successful player, having represented the Brazilian national team, he arrived in Portugal in the 1980s as a coach. He coached several teams, including Sporting CP in 1990/1991 and 1991/1992.
“To family and friends, Sporting CP extends its deepest condolences, whilst praising and thanking them for their years of dedication and devotion to the Club.”
A fan said: “Few coaches or players from my club, or perhaps none, will have marked my childhood and my journey as a fan as much as Marinho Peres, may he rest in peace.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
