When discussions turn to the greatest footballer of all time, two names often dominate the conversation: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Yet, the legendary Pelé, a figure synonymous with footballing greatness, once offered a surprising and controversial perspective, identifying four players he believed unequivocally surpassed Argentina’s revered icon, notable among them, no mention of Cristiano Ronaldo. This audacious claim from the ‘King’ himself ignited a global debate, challenging the widely accepted hierarchy of footballing supremacy.
Pelé’s own illustrious career provided him with an unparalleled vantage point from which to judge talent. A three-time FIFA World Cup winner with Brazil – in 1958, 1962, and 1970 – his personal achievements cemented his status as a true pioneer and football legend. His highlight reels, showcasing mesmerizing dribbling, visionary playmaking, and prolific goalscoring, continue to inspire awe, reinforcing the immense talent that defined Pelé’s legacy. It was from this platform of unquestionable brilliance that he cast his judgment.
Pelé’s critique of Lionel Messi was direct and unsparing, focusing particularly on what he perceived as a limited skill set. He famously questioned how one could compare a player adept with both feet, strong in the air, and versatile, to another who “only shoots with one leg, only has one skill and doesn’t head the ball well.” This assessment, aimed squarely at Messi, underscored Pelé’s traditional view of a complete footballer, contrasting sharply with Messi’s lauded, yet specialized, genius.
Among the pantheon of football legends Pelé deemed superior, Diego Maradona stood prominent. Pelé consistently praised Maradona, hailing him as “one of the best players ever.” This endorsement of the Argentine maestro highlighted a mutual respect between two of football’s most celebrated figures, solidifying Maradona’s place above Messi in Pelé’s discerning eyes, irrespective of popular opinion or numerous accolades.
Beyond Maradona, Pelé also named two European titans who, in his view, overshadowed Messi: Johan Cruyff and Franz Beckenbauer. Both Cruyff and Beckenbauer redefined their respective positions and left an indelible mark on the sport with their intelligence, leadership, and revolutionary playing styles. Pelé explicitly stated, “If you ask me, ‘Was he better than Messi?’ Yes, he was. Much better. [Franz] Beckenbauer, [Johan] Cruyff were also excellent players,” underscoring his firm belief in their superiority.
Despite Pelé’s controversial stance, Lionel Messi remains widely regarded as arguably the greatest of all time, evidenced by his record eight Ballon d’Or awards and numerous collective and individual accolades. His consistent brilliance, unparalleled dribbling, and prolific goalscoring have captivated millions, securing his place in football history. This widespread adulation makes Pelé’s dissenting opinion all the more intriguing and thought-provoking, adding another layer to the enduring “GOAT debate”.
In conclusion, Pelé’s uncompromising assessment offered a rare glimpse into the mind of a legend evaluating his peers and successors. While the world often crowns Lionel Messi as the undisputed king of modern football, Pelé remained steadfast in his conviction, championing a quartet of footballing giants – Diego Maradona, Johan Cruyff, and Franz Beckenbauer – as truly “much better” than the Argentine maestro, forever stirring the timeless conversation about the greatest players to grace the beautiful game.
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