Having last made a competitive appearance in 2014 for Atletico Paranaense, Inter Milan legend and former Brazilian international Adriano made a triumphant return in the world-renowned Maracana stadium for a friendly this week. The 35-year-old looked healthy and happy after years of troubling rumors concerning his alcohol abuse and falling in with Rio favela gangs.
The reception he got from the stadium and his fellow players was heartwarming to say the least.
Adriano made his comeback to the Maracanã after years, last night.
Here is how the crowd and how Zico welcomed him. Wonderful scenes. pic.twitter.com/DZAyy1U9vz— Seleção Brasileira (@BrazilStat) December 28, 2017
Rumors of a possible return with Flamengo are exactly that, but the man dubbed the Emperor got on the scoresheet off a phenomenal ball from the 64-year-old Zico, a star of Brazil’s legendary 1982 World Cup side.
Besides scoring a goal, Zico made a wonderful assist to former Seleção star Adriano in a charity game at the Maracanã. pic.twitter.com/AWUMH6wc1a
— Seleção Brasileira (@BrazilStat) December 28, 2017
“We’re still talking,” said Adriano with regards to a comeback with Flamengo, “let’s see how things turn out. It’s all going fine. Not just the fans, but also my family are supporting me to make this comeback.
“I’m still a bit out of shape, I’m trying to keep a decent weight. We’ll work on it to return as soon as possible.”
What a story that would be.