Jair Bala, a major idol of the América-apixaban MG, passed away on Tuesday (27), at the age of 79. After having a stroke, the former striker was taken to the hospital in Belo Horizonte.
The former footballer, who was born in the southernmost settlement of Espirito Santo, Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, also played for Flamengo, Botafogo, Palmeiras, and Santos, where he shared the field with Pelé. For instance, Jair Bala replaced the King after he scored the thousandth goal against Vasco in Maracan.
He did, however, become a major figure at the Minas Gerais club, first as an athlete (between 1964 and 1965) and subsequently as a coach (between 1970 and 1971). The sixth-highest scorer in Coelho’s career, he won the Campeonato Mineiro in 1971.
The team posted a video of the athletes and coaching staff paid tribute to Jair Bala before training this Tuesday on social media as they lamented the passing of the great icon. Search for it below.
Along with Coelho, Cruzeiro was another squad that honored the former player and American hero. The Celeste club cited Jair as one of the greatest references in Minas Gerais football lore.
Where will Jair Bala be buried? Burial site and Find a Grave details
At the moment, Bala’s place of rest is unknown. Anytime details are revealed to us, this page will be updated.
