Brazilian football legend Zico recently visited Ajax at their Amsterdam facility, expressing his deep admiration for the historic Eredivisie club, as shown in video footage released on Ajax.
nl on July 7, 2026.
The former midfielder and attacker toured the Dutch record champions' facilities and reflected on the enduring legacy of Dutch football.
"It is a great pleasure to visit Ajax. It is a team for which I have always had a lot of admiration," Zico said.
Admiration for Dutch Legends
Zico highlighted his lifelong respect for Ajax, dating back to the era of legendary Dutch players who shaped global football in the 1970s.
"That has been true since the time of Cruijff and Keizer. We are talking about Neeskens and many other Dutch football players.
Cruijff was for me one of the best players in history," he said.
During his playing career, Zico faced Ajax only once, in a friendly match in Brazil.
"We played in Morumbi stadium in São Paulo and won 5-0.
I scored two goals and they have a good story, because they were the fourth and fifth goal.
Socrates also made a beautiful goal," Zico recalled.
Reflections on Brazil's World Cup Campaign
Despite his legendary status, Zico's Brazil squad never won a World Cup, drawing parallels with other iconic teams.
"It is one of the teams that did not win a title, but to this day we are talked about," he noted.
He cited the 1974 Netherlands national team as another example of an uncrowned squad still discussed globally.
Turning to the 2026 World Cup, Zico shared his thoughts on Brazil's elimination by Norway.
"It is always very sad, because we always hope that Brazil at least reaches the semi-finals. I think that Brazil did not play a bad game," he said.
He analyzed the tactical shortcomings, pointing out Norway's goalkeeper as one of the best on the field while Brazil lacked aggression.
"In my opinion, Brazil did not take the initiative. They let Norway play and did not exert pressure.
Norway gained more and more confidence to beat Brazil and ultimately win," Zico added.
Ajax Defender Lucas Rosa on Zico's Visit
Ajax defender Lucas Rosa, also Brazilian, expressed pride in the surprise visit.
"He is simply a legend," Rosa said. "Everyone in Brazil and the world knows him.
He has won many prizes, a world top player. It is always a huge honor to meet him."
