Who is Pelé's Favorite Player?

Who is Pelé's Favorite Player?

The question of "Who is Pelé's favorite player?" is one that sparks curiosity among soccer fans worldwide, especially considering Pelé's own legendary status. While Pelé himself was a transcendent figure in the sport, he wasn't shy about acknowledging and admiring the talents of other footballers throughout his illustrious career and beyond. Pinpointing a single, definitive "favorite" is complex, as Pelé often expressed admiration for various players based on different eras and skill sets. However, when pressed, one name consistently emerged as a player Pelé held in the highest regard.

The Unanimous Choice: Garrincha

Without a doubt, the player Pelé most frequently cited as his favorite, and often referred to as his idol, was his fellow Brazilian legend, Garrincha. Their partnership on the Brazilian national team, particularly during the 1958 and 1962 World Cup victories, is etched in soccer history. Pelé and Garrincha, though different in style, complemented each other perfectly, creating an unstoppable attacking force.

Why Garrincha Stood Out to Pelé

• Unparalleled Dribbling Ability: Garrincha, whose nickname means "little bird" in Portuguese, was renowned for his mesmerizing dribbling. He possessed an almost supernatural ability to beat defenders with quick feints, changes of direction, and explosive bursts of speed. Pelé, a master technician himself, deeply appreciated the artistry and flair that Garrincha brought to the game.
• Joyful Spirit: Garrincha played with an infectious joy and a sense of freedom that resonated deeply with Pelé. He was known for his carefree attitude on the pitch, which often translated into dazzling and unpredictable play. This uninhibited style was something Pelé admired, as it showcased the pure, unadulterated love for the game.
• Impact on the National Team: While Pelé was the undisputed star, Garrincha often stepped up and delivered crucial performances, especially when Pelé was injured, as was the case during the 1962 World Cup. Garrincha's brilliant displays in that tournament were instrumental in Brazil's second consecutive World Cup title. Pelé recognized and valued this ability to shine when the team needed him most.
• "The Joy of the People": Garrincha was often called "the joy of the people" due to his humble origins and his captivating style of play that brought happiness to millions. Pelé, who also came from humble beginnings and became a national hero, understood the profound impact a player could have on society beyond the pitch.

Pelé often spoke of his deep respect and affection for Garrincha, frequently describing him as the greatest dribbler the game had ever seen. He would often say things along the lines of:

"Garrincha was a phenomenon. He played with the joy of a child, and his dribbling was magical. He made me a better player because I knew I had him by my side. He was truly special."

It's important to note that Pelé's admiration wasn't limited to just one player. Over the years, he expressed respect for many greats, acknowledging the evolution of the game and the emergence of new talents.

Other Players Pelé Admired

• Alfredo Di Stéfano: The legendary Argentine-born Spanish forward was a dominant force in the 1950s and early 1960s for Real Madrid. Pelé admired Di Stéfano's all-around game, his leadership, and his incredible scoring ability.
• Johan Cruyff: The Dutch master, known for his "Total Football" philosophy, was another player Pelé held in high esteem. Pelé appreciated Cruyff's intelligence, vision, and revolutionary approach to the game.
• Diego Maradona: While a contemporary and rival of sorts in terms of global icon status, Pelé often acknowledged Maradona's incredible individual brilliance and his ability to single-handedly carry teams. Their friendly rivalry often involved mutual respect.
• Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: In more recent times, Pelé frequently spoke about the extraordinary achievements of both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He recognized their unparalleled goal-scoring records, their longevity, and their impact on the modern game, often stating they were among the best of their generation.

However, the bond and admiration Pelé had for Garrincha remained unique. It was a relationship forged in the heat of battle for Brazil, a shared journey to the pinnacle of international football. Pelé's consistent praise for Garrincha throughout his life solidifies the latter as his most cherished footballing compatriot and, arguably, his ultimate favorite player.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How did Pelé and Garrincha play together?

Pelé and Garrincha were formidable partners on the Brazilian national team. They often played as attacking forwards, with Garrincha typically on the right wing and Pelé in a more central attacking role or on the left. Their understanding was intuitive, allowing them to create dazzling attacking combinations that overwhelmed opposing defenses. Garrincha's dribbling often drew defenders, opening up space for Pelé to score or create chances.

Why was Garrincha considered so special by Pelé?

Garrincha's exceptional dribbling skills, his joyous and carefree style of play, and his crucial performances for Brazil, especially when Pelé was injured, made him stand out. Pelé deeply admired Garrincha's ability to entertain and inspire, recognizing him as a peerless talent who brought happiness to the fans and was instrumental in Brazil's World Cup triumphs.

Did Pelé have any favorites outside of Brazil?

Yes, Pelé did admire players from other countries. He spoke highly of legends like Alfredo Di Stéfano from Argentina/Spain and Johan Cruyff from the Netherlands, recognizing their immense talent and contributions to the sport. He also acknowledged the modern greats like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.