Luís Pereira

Luís Edmundo Pereira (born 21 June 1949) is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a centre back, in particular with Palmeiras, Atlético Madrid and the Brazil national team. He won national championships in both Brazil and Spain beyond UEFA and the Intercontinental Cup. Known for his pace and power, as well as his marking and defensive leadership, he was, for a time, considered one of the best defenders in Europe during his time with Atlético Madrid. While his defending style can be considered "classical," he is also considered the first and best of Brazil's "modern" centre back, a role that would go on to include World Cup winner Lúcio.

Career Pereira received 36 caps with the Brazil national team, the first one in June 1973 and the last in July 1977, and played in the 1974 World Cup – where he was sent off in the second round match against Holland for a foul on Johan Neeskens. He became the first Brazilian player to receive a red card during a World Cup finals match.

Pereira played 562 games with Palmeiras (34 goals) and 171 games with Atlético Madrid (17 goals).

After retiring as player, he continued his involvement in football by becoming manager of São Bento and Sãocarlense, and assistant manager of São Caetano.

Since 2002 he lives in Madrid, Spain, with his wife and daughter and he is the President of the Atlético Madrid B.

Honours Palmeiras Campeonato Paulista: 1972, 1974 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A: 1969, 1972, 1973

Atlético de Madrid La Liga: 1976–77 Copa del Rey: 1975–76

Individual World XI: 1974, 1977, 1978 La Liga Team of The Year: 1977 IFFHS Brazilian Best Footballer of XX Century: 15º