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Ze MariaBrazilian footballer, right back
Date of Birth: 05.08.1949
Country:  Brazil |
Content:
- Biography of Zé Maria
- Move to Corinthians and Legal Battle
- Career with Corinthians
- Later Years and International Career
Biography of Zé Maria
Early Life and CareerZé Maria, a Brazilian footballer, was born into a farmer's family. He had two brothers with whom he played football from a young age. Zé Maria began his career at the local club "Lajeadense" and then moved to "Ferroviária Botucatu" in 1962. In 1966, he joined the main team of the club and made his debut in a match against "Nacional," which his team won 5-1. After playing for "Ferroviária" for a year and a half, Zé Maria transferred to "Portuguesa Desportos" in 1967.
Move to Corinthians and Legal Battle
In 1969, negotiations began between "Portuguesa" and "Corinthians" for Zé Maria's transfer. The negotiations were led by Zé Maria's father, Durvalino, who was his lawyer and agent. Despite not being asked for his opinion on the move, Zé Maria started training with "Corinthians" after the World Cup, considering it the greatest opportunity of his life. However, due to legal issues, Zé Maria had to continue playing for "Portuguesa" until the contract was signed. Eventually, the contract was finalized, and "Corinthians" paid a higher amount than initially agreed upon.
Career with Corinthians
Zé Maria made his debut for "Corinthians" on November 8, 1970, in a match against "Grêmio" which his team lost 0-1. In 1974, "Corinthians" reached the final of the São Paulo State Championship but lost to "Palmeiras." In 1977, Zé Maria won the state championship with his team, ending a 23-year drought. That same year, he scored the first goal for "Corinthians" in the Copa Libertadores against "Internacional." Over the years, Zé Maria won three more São Paulo State Championships, with the last one being in 1983, where he was also the playing coach of the team. In total, he played 599 games for "Corinthians," scoring 17 goals.
Later Years and International Career
After leaving "Corinthians," Zé Maria spent a few months at "Internacional Limeira" before retiring in 1984. He then worked as the head of sports at CASA Foundation, promoting sports among juvenile offenders. Zé Maria made his debut for the Brazilian national team on June 20, 1968, in a friendly match against Poland. He participated in the 1970 and 1974 World Cups but did not play in any matches in the 1970 tournament. Zé Maria played a total of 47 official matches for Brazil. He is married to Josephina, and they have faced some personal challenges in their relationship.
Overall, Zé Maria had an impressive career as a Brazilian right-back footballer, representing his country and achieving success with "Corinthians" and other clubs.
