Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-18 07:55:56
At the age of 58, Brazilian football icon Romario has a remarkable list of accomplishments, including being a World Cup winner, a senator, and the president of his favorite club, America of Rio de Janeiro.
After 15 years of retiring from professional football, the legendary striker has decided to make a comeback and add another chapter to his career by rejoining America as a player. Currently competing in the second division of the Rio state championship, America is striving to return to the top flight.
Romario took to Instagram to announce his return, expressing his readiness to support his beloved club. He also shared his excitement at the prospect of playing alongside his son, Romarinho, who is a forward for the team.
While Romario acknowledged that he does not plan on playing the entire state championship, he is eager to fulfill his dream of sharing the pitch with his son and representing America once again.
Having grown up cheering for America, the club that his late father supported, Romario began his professional career with their rivals Vasco before moving to Europe and achieving success with clubs like PSV Eindhoven and Barcelona. He was a key player in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup-winning team and was honored with the FIFA World Player of the Year award that same year.
Despite retiring in 2008, Romario briefly came out of retirement in 2009 to play for America before transitioning into a successful political career. Elected to the Senate in 2015 and re-elected in 2022, he has also taken on the role of president at America since January, working to improve the club’s financial situation and guide them back to the top flight of Brazilian football.
With his return to the pitch, Romario aims to provide support to America while also enjoying the unique opportunity to play alongside his son. This new chapter in his storied career is sure to be a memorable and meaningful experience for the football legend.
