When it comes to soccer royalty, only a few countries can compete with Brazil. The land of elevated favelas is known for producing world-class talent, from time to time. The Brazillian men’s national soccer team has dominated the World Cups for decades now, leading the way with 5 World Cups to its name. Zico, Socrates, Garrincha, etc. have all gone on to dominate the world stage. But the great Pele’s impact is second to none.
🇧🇷💚 Beautiful photo… R9, Pelé & Roberto Carlos together after the World Player of the Year awards in 1997. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/utg3bbYyAM
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) November 16, 2023
With 3 World Cups to his name, Pele has written his name in the soccer history book, with golden words. Widely respected as one of the greatest players in the history of soccer, Pele was known for his composure, elite mentality, and leadership skills. With such accolades and reputation to his name, it doesn’t come as a surprise when his opinions hold such a high value.
Pele overlooks Cristiano Ronaldo to pick Messi in his team
With so many records and titles to his name, it was quite unsurprising when Pele chose Messi to be in his team over Cristiano Ronaldo. Pele did not shy away from making comparisons between Messi and Ronaldo. However, he didn’t forget to accept the greatness of the two. He also highlighted the importance of including players such as Zidane, Cruyff, and Maradona in such conversations.
Speaking to a Brazillian site, SporTV(via BeSoccer), Pele said, “I would still stay with Messi. Scoring is important, no doubt, but if you do not have anyone to prepare, then the ball is not enough. For my team, I prefer Messi, As for Cristiano Ronaldo, he’s a great goalscorer. Ronaldo’s been able to score goals, while you see Messi creating goals and directing the play, as well as scoring. Ronaldo’s a great goalscorer, but in terms of the complete player, there’s no doubt that Messi is the best.”
Pele added that both Ronaldo and Messi, have different playing styles, making it difficult to compare the two. But if he were to form a team, he would surely choose the latter. While Ronaldo is a great goalscorer, it is the creative aspect of Messi that has impressed Pele. And it makes sense when we look at Messi’s career records. His impact on Barca and the Argentine team is historical. And the 2022 World Cup win is nothing but his crowning moment.
20 years ago today, Messi made his Barcelona debut in a friendly against Porto 👶
The rest is history ❤️🏆 pic.twitter.com/dLToCXwcbY
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 16, 2023
Messi has revolutionized the way he has played soccer. He popularised the role of a ‘false nine’, drawing the attention of the opposition’s defenders to create more space for the wingers to run into. Such traits put him at the pinnacle of the soccer world, winning every trophy he possibly could. His undying will to win a trophy finally came to fruition when he won the Copa America, The Finalissima, and the World Cup in a span of a few years.
Messi enjoying his days at Inter Miami CF
Messi is having the time of his life at Inter Miami right now. He’s quickly become a fan favorite and has earned the applause of his teammates. In this short period, Messi has already delivered winning Inter Miami CF their first-ever trophy, the League’s Cup. Messi has added a new groove to the team, playing with flare and inspiring the teammates around him.
Leo Messi presents the Ballon d’Or in front of Inter Miami’s fans 🏆 pic.twitter.com/NYM2aunk92
— B/R Football (@brfootball) November 11, 2023
His impact at the club is evident, as when Messi is playing, Miami has superior chances of winning. Commercially the club has grown a lot, since Messi’s arrival. Miami’s social media following and ticket sales have all risen. Though Messi could not get his team to qualify for the MLS playoffs, signs look better. With the help of his former teammates at Barca, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, it seems only sky is the limit for Messi and Inter Miami CF.