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Jose ReinaldoFormer Brazilian footballer, striker
Date of Birth: 11.01.1957
Country:  Brazil |
Content:
Biography of Jose Renaldo
Early Life and CareerJose Renaldo, a former Brazilian football player, was born in the family of Mario Renaldo de Lima and Maria Coeli. He was the 6th child out of 9 siblings. Coming from a poverty-stricken background, Renaldo started working at a young age to pursue his passion for cinema. He began his football career at the youth club "Pontenovense," where his two brothers also played.
In 1971, during a friendly match between Pontenovense and Atletico Mineiro, Renaldo caught the attention of Barbata, the coach of Atletico Mineiro. Impressed by Renaldo's talent, Barbata convinced his parents to let him join the club and signed him immediately.
Rise to Success
Renaldo made his debut for Atletico Mineiro's youth team in a preseason match against the main squad. He showcased his skills by outplaying established professionals and scoring three goals, leading to his contract with the club. Renaldo quickly became the best player in the youth team but had to wait until he turned 16 to debut for the senior squad.
On January 28, 1973, Renaldo made his first appearance for Atletico Mineiro's senior team in a state championship match against Valerio, which ended in a 2-1 victory for Atletico. Just a week later, on February 4, he scored his first goal for the club against Caldense in a 2-2 draw.
Challenges and Comeback
In 1974, Renaldo suffered a knee injury during a match against Ceara, resulting in a surgery to remove his left meniscus. After his recovery, he regained his position as the attacking leader of Atletico Mineiro, earning the nickname "King" from the club's fans. However, opposing defenders targeted him and frequently targeted his injured knee when he displayed his trademark dribbles.
In 1977, Renaldo became the top scorer of the Brazilian championship but suffered another knee injury. He underwent three surgeries to participate in the World Cup that year. Despite wearing a knee brace during his free time, Renaldo struggled with his recovery and underwent another knee surgery in 1978.
Later Career and Life
Renaldo regained his form after several years and was seen as a potential inclusion in the Brazilian national team for the 1982 World Cup. However, he was not selected by Tele Santana, the coach, who made controversial remarks about Renaldo's personal life. Renaldo denied the allegations and continued his football journey.
In 1985, Renaldo transferred to Palmeiras after struggling to secure a position in Atletico Mineiro's lineup. He later played for Rio Negro in Manaus, Swedish club Hecken, and Dutch club Telstar. In 1996, Renaldo battled drug addiction and sought treatment for his mental and physical well-being.
Aside from his football career, Renaldo also served as a deputy for the Green Party in the Minas Gerais state parliament from 1990 to 1994. He also worked as a commentator for Alterosa channel and served as a member of the municipality of Belo Horizonte from 2005 to 2008.
Throughout his career, Renaldo achieved numerous accolades, including winning the Minas Gerais state championship eight times with Atletico Mineiro and being the top scorer of the 1977 Brazilian championship. He also received the Silver Ball award in 1977 and 1983.
