Who Is Garrincha? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on October 28, 1933, Garrincha would have turned 92 in 2025 if he were still with us. Widely regarded as one of the greatest wingers in football history, he played a pivotal role in Brazil's World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962. His playful style and ability to entertain audiences with stunning performances made him a beloved icon, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of footballers.
| Occupation | Footballer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1933 |
| Age | 49 Years |
| Birth Place | Magé, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | Brazil |
| Date of death | 20 January, 1983 |
| Died Place | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
Popularity
Garrincha's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Garrincha stood at approximately 1.69 m (5 ft 7 in), a height that did not deter him from dominating on the field. Despite his relatively short stature, his agility and exceptional ball control allowed him to maneuver around defenders effortlessly. His playing weight hovered around 70 kg (154 lbs), contributing to his swift movements.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Garrincha was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage to Elza Soares, a renowned Brazilian singer, was highly publicized but ultimately ended in divorce. He later married his second wife, with whom he had several children. His family plays an essential role in preserving his memory and honoring his contributions to both football and Brazilian culture.
His father was an alcoholic, drinking cachaça heavily, a problem which Garrincha would inherit. A boy with a carefree attitude, he was smaller than other kids his age, with his sister Rosa noticing he was as small as a little bird she started calling him Garrincha, the north-eastern name for the wren, a little brown bird.
The name stuck and by the age of four years he was known as Garrincha to his family and friends. Garrincha was also known as Mané (short for Manuel) by his friends. The combined Mané Garrincha is common among fans in Brazil.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 1983, Garrincha's net worth is estimated to have been modest compared to today's football stars. However, as a football icon, his legacy earns significant income through various means, such as memorabilia, endorsements, and continued interest from football fans and historians. While exact figures for 2025 are speculative, his influence on the game continues to generate an enduring value.
After a series of financial and marital problems, Garrincha died of cirrhosis of the liver on 20 January 1983, in an alcoholic coma in Rio de Janeiro. He had been hospitalized eight times in the previous year, and by the time of his death he was a physical and mental wreck.
His last years were unhappy and obscure – he seemed to have become a forgotten hero – but his funeral procession, from the Maracanã to Pau Grande, drew millions of fans, friends and former players to pay their respects.
His epitaph reads "Here rests in peace the one who was the Joy of the People – Mané Garrincha." People had painted on the wall: Obrigado, Garrincha, por você ter vivido (Thank you, Garrincha, for having lived).
Career, Business, and Investments
Garrincha began his career at Botafogo, where he became a household name. His exceptional performances in club and international football established him as a national hero in Brazil. Although he didn't accumulate vast wealth like modern players, his impact on the game created a foundation for future generations. In his memory, several initiatives and charitable organizations have been established, promoting youth football and education in Brazil.
At club level, Garrincha played the majority of his professional career for the Brazilian team Botafogo. In the Maracanã Stadium, the home team room is known as "Garrincha". In the capital Brasília, the Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha is named after him. He is credited for inspiring the first bullfighting chants of olé to be used at football grounds.
Social Network
While Garrincha did not have social media during his lifetime, his legacy resonates strongly on various platforms today. Fans and sports enthusiasts frequently share highlights of his matches, tributes to his talent, and discussions about his contributions to the beautiful game. Numerous fan pages and accounts dedicated to his memory keep his spirit alive in the digital world.
Garrincha was subject to numerous transfer attempts by rich European clubs like Juventus of Turin, Italy who tried to sign him in 1954. Real Madrid of Spain tried to sign him in 1959 after some stunning performances by him on a tour of Europe.
Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus of Italy considered jointly signing him in 1963 (he would have to spend a season with each); a deal that would have been unique in football.
Education
Garrincha’s education was primarily rooted in his surroundings and experiences on the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Although he did not pursue formal education, his upbringing taught him vital life skills and helped develop his unique playing style. His natural talent and creativity on the field overshadow the traditional educational norms, showcasing that greatness can arise from various life paths.
In conclusion, Garrincha's legacy as a football superstar endures in 2025. His remarkable career, family history, and continuing influence ensure that this Brazilian legend will be celebrated for years to come.
