Overview

Waldir Peres de Arruda (born 2 January 1951, source) was a Brazilian professional football goalkeeper who became one of his generation's best-known custodians in domestic and international football. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and remained active in the sport as a player and later as a coach, earning recognition for his consistency and longevity.

Club career and achievements

Peres spent the prime of his playing career with São Paulo FC, where he established himself as a regular first-team goalkeeper and helped the club compete at the top level of Brazilian football. Over a long club career he represented several Brazilian teams and collected multiple state-level honors, becoming closely associated with São Paulo's successes during his tenure. His club performances brought him national attention and a reputation for dependable shot‑stopping and calm presence under pressure.

International career

Peres represented the Brazil national team across the late 1970s and early 1980s. He was selected for major tournaments and is particularly remembered for his participation at the 1982 FIFA World Cup, where he played as part of a celebrated Brazil side. His international service included competitive matches and friendlies that contributed to Brazil's depth in goal over that era. Further details on his international appearances are available in contemporary records and player profiles (national team record).

Style, reputation and later work

Known for agility, good reflexes and leadership from the back, Peres combined traditional goalkeeping skills with an ability to organize his defence. After retiring as a player he remained involved in football, working in coaching and mentoring roles, especially focusing on training goalkeepers and sharing experience with younger professionals. His career left a lasting impression on teammates, clubs and fans.

Notable facts

  • Recognized as a long-serving figure at São Paulo FC and a familiar face in Brazil's national squads.
  • Remembered for steady performances in domestic competitions and international tournaments.
  • Profiles and statistics on his career can be consulted for club and national details (player profile).

Death: Waldir Peres died in Mogi das Cruzes, Brazil, on 23 July 2017 from a heart attack at the age of 66 (report). His passing prompted tributes from clubs, former teammates and fans who recalled his contributions to Brazilian football.