Carlos Kaiser: The Football Impostor

Carlos Henrique Raposo grew up in Rio de Janeiro surrounded by football and opportunity,

but not talent. He understood the game, loved its culture, and—most importantly—understood

people. When it became clear he would never succeed on the pitch, he chose another

path. He became Carlos Kaiser, borrowing the name of Franz Beckenbauer

to sound important, European, untouchable. Kaiser embedded himself in Rio’s

football nightlife, befriending real stars like Renato Gaúcho, whose presence alone

opened doors. Through those circles, Kaiser became familiar with names like Romário,

Bebeto, Edmundo, and Zico. He was never their equal on the field,