Brazil’s World Cup winner Romario has come out of retirement to sign for Football Club in Rio de Janeiro.
The 58-year-old, who was a key part of Brazil’s World Cup success in 1994, has registered himself as a player for the Brazilian club in the second division of the Carioca Championship, which begins next month.
Romario has already served as America FC’s president since 2009, while he was elected senator for Rio de Janeiro in 2014.
His last professional game was for America FC in 2009 at the age of 43.
Romario insists he will not play a league game for America FC but his keen to play alongside his 30-year-old son, Romarinho, who is a striker in their squad.
In a video on Instagram announcing his return, Romario said: ‘I’m not going to compete in the championship, but rather play a few games for the team of my heart and make another dream come true, playing alongside my son. What do you think?’
Romario’s registration as a player was approved this week and while he will be paid a salary, the former Brazil forward will return it to America FC as a donation.
During his career, Romario was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1994 and won the Golden Ball for his talismanic performances for Brazil at the World Cup.
He scored 50 goals in 70 appearances for Brazil’s national side.
At club level, he won league titles with Barcelona, PSV, Vasco da Gama and Flamengo.
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