Brazilian football legend Carlos Alberto has died at the age of 72 according to reports in Brazilian media. He reportedly died in Rio de Janeiro after suffering a heart attack.
Alberto captained Brazil to victory at the 1970 World Cup and is considered as one of the greatest defenders of all time. Alberto won 53 caps for his national team, scoring eight goals in the process as he established himself as a key player in what is considered one of the greatest international sides to ever play the game.
He spent the majority of his club career at Santos, where he played alongside Pele, before moving back to his first club Fluminese in 1974.
A statement on the official Santos website read: ‘Santos FC regrets the death of the idol Carlos Alberto Torres, who was 72 years old.”
Carlos Alberto had a huge influence in Brazilian football not only for being one of the best right-backs to ever don the Brazil shirt, but also for being one of the most uncompromising voices of the game in his native country.
May his soul rest in peace!