Marinho Peres, a former Barcelona player, has died at the age of 76.
The former defender represented Brazil in the 1974 World Cup, earning the respect of the renowned Johan Cruyff.
Peres joined Barcelona after the competition and stayed for two years.
He spent the most of his 16-year playing career in Brazil, where he earned 15 national team caps.
Between 1972 and 1974, Peres played with Brazil great Pele at Santos, when he won the Campeonato Paulista – the state of Sao Paulo’s top flight league.
The former center-back has also played for Internacional, Portuguesa, and Sao Bento, where he began his career.
Peres got into coaching when his playing career ended, and he led 13 different clubs, including Santos twice.
He also managed Belenenses for four seasons, winning the Portuguese domestic cup during his first stay in 1989.
Peres also won a trophy as manager of Botafogo in 1997.
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.”
