Carlos Alberto returns to the New York Cosmos as international ambassador

Carlos Alberto Returns to The New York Cosmos as International Ambassador 1970 World Cup Winning Captain and Former New York Cosmos Defender Reunites With Brazilian Teammate Pelé Once Again

The New York Cosmos today announced that Carlos Alberto has rejoined The New York Cosmos as International Ambassador, nearly 34 years after coming to the club to play with longtime friend and teammate Pelé – with whom he played at Santos FC as well as the Brazilian National Team. During their time together at The New York Cosmos, they celebrated an NASL Soccer Bowl victory in 1977 – the same year of Pelé’s retirement. Alberto continued on with The New York Cosmos to win the NASL Soccer Bowl in 1978 and 1980. In 1981, he did a stint with the California Surf but shortly returned to The New York Cosmos to win his fourth (and the club’s fifth) NASL Soccer Bowl championship in 1982. This would also be the final season of his playing career.

Today, Alberto reunites with teammate Pelé once again for the next chapter of the newly revived New York Cosmos. In his new role as International Ambassador, he will work closely with the club and its academies and grassroots programs to help bridge the past with the present-day New York Cosmos. He will also interact with fans and media throughout the world to
promote the history of the club and participate in the club’s rebuilding efforts as part of its mission to be a professional team once again.

Alberto is widely considered one of the greatest defenders in the history of the sport and has been named on the World Team of the 20th Century and the FIFA 100 list. He has also been inducted into the Pacaembu Brazilian Football Museum Hall of Fame along with the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame.

"My time with The New York Cosmos was very unique and special to me, and I take great pride in helping restore this club to greatness,” says Alberto. “I’m looking forward to seeing what’s ahead for The New York Cosmos and will support them in any way to fulfill both its short- and long-term plans.”

“Carlos Alberto’s exceptional leadership qualities were reflected in the four championships won during his time with The New York Cosmos,” says Paul Kemsley, Chairman of The New York Cosmos. “We are honored that ŒEl Capitán’ is returning back to this great club and city.”