RIO DE JANEIRO – Japan coach Zico spoke Wednesday of his interest in coaching in Europe after he steps down as national team boss after the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany, but said he would not consider taking over at former club Flamengo in his native Brazil.
“In Brazil people are too concerned with the week-to-week results,” the legendary former Brazil midfielder told Globo TV. “I wouldn’t even think about working at Flamengo.”
“After the World Cup my time with Japan ends and if I continue coaching, which I probably will, I see my future in Europe,” Zico added.
The 52-year-old said he would probably return to his post as technical director at J-League club Kashima Antlers if he does not receive any offers from Europe.
Italian news agency ANSA has reported Zico could take over at Italian Serie A side Udinese, one of his former clubs.
Zico took over the Japan national team after the 2002 World Cup the country co-hosted with South Korea.
Japan retained the Asian Cup in 2004 and became the first team to qualify and join hosts Germany at next year’s World Cup, where they will face reigning champions Brazil, Australia and Croatia in first-round Group F.
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever.
By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.