The former midfielder was coaching Ypiranga-PE. His cause of death was not officially announced and he had recently reported chest pain before being hospitalized.
Former Brazil international Carlos Alberto Dias died Monday at the age of 59, his club Ypiranga-PE said. He was coaching the Pernambuco side as it prepared for the state championship.
The cause of death was not officially disclosed. CNN Brasil reported that Dias developed a fever, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting on Saturday. His condition improved after treatment at an urgent-care unit, but he became unwell again on Sunday with chest pain and was admitted to Mestre Vitalino Hospital in Caruaru. He died before a further cardiology assessment.
Dias left Acre club Humaitá in January to address health problems. The report said he had a recent history of cardiac issues, but authorities had not confirmed that as the cause of death.
As a player, Dias represented Rio de Janeiro’s four major clubs and also turned out for Grêmio, Coritiba, Paraná and Ceará. One of the defining moments of his career came with Botafogo: his goal helped the club win the 1990 state championship. He appeared for Brazil’s national team in 1992.
After moving into coaching, Dias led several teams, including Castanhal, Frei Paulistano, Gama, Guaporé and Humaitá. Botafogo was among the clubs that publicly mourned his death.