Edu Coimbra

Early Life

Eduardo Antunes Coimbra, known as Edu, was born into a lower-middle-class family in the suburbs of Quintino, Rio de Janeiro. Growing up in a football-centric household, his father was a goalkeeper, and three of his brothers pursued professional football careers, with the most notable being the legendary Zico.

Career

Edu's football journey began at America Football Club, where he played from 1966 to 1974. He later had stints with several clubs, including Flamengo, Bahia, and Vasco da Gama, showcasing his skills as an attacking midfielder. His international career included representing Brazil in 1967 and later playing for the Japan men's national team from 2002 to 2006. Edu's club career also took him abroad, with notable spells at Fenerbahçe Istanbul and CSKA Moscow.

Coaching Career

Transitioning from player to coach, Edu became a member of Zico's veteran team at Fenerbahçe, where he worked alongside other Brazilian footballers. He also served as an assistant manager at CSKA Moscow and is currently the assistant manager of the Iraq national football team.

Legacy

Edu's contributions to football are recognized through various honors, including winning the Copa Rio Branco with Brazil in 1967 and multiple state championships as a coach. His legacy is further enriched by his familial ties to football, particularly through his brother Zico, a celebrated figure in the sport.