If Pelé Were to Play Today: Would He Rank Among Current Soccer Stars?
As we ponder the question, 'Would prime Messi be successful if he played in 50 or so years in the future,' the answer is undeniably yes, according to most of us. People in 50 years might write off Messi due to the evolving game and tactics, but those who saw him play live would know that he would continue to excel, no matter the generation he plays in.
We don’t know how Pelé would perform, given how the game has changed, but we shouldn’t dismiss his potential at least.
Pelé’s Impact: A Classic Forward
Pele was a classic center forward similar to Suarez and Lewandowski. If a young Pelé were to play today, he might be deployed on the wings like Rashford or Mbappe. However, his unparalleled goal-scoring ability would ensure that he would eventually become the 9 at any club as he got older.
If he stayed fit and healthy, Pelé would score 50 goals a season for over a decade in any league! For instance, if you look at Mbappe today, Pelé’s younger self could be compared to him. As for the older Pelé, consider Cristiano Ronaldo to see how he would be rated in today’s game.
Adapting to Modern Soccer: The Role of Training and Natural Talent
The key to Pelé’s success would depend on how well he could adapt. If he appeared and went straight into a game, he might struggle with the pace and pressing tactics. However, with the right conditioning, a new diet, and a full pre-season, combined with a few months to get used to modern tactics, he could become the best player in the world once again.
There is a significant difference between what can be taught and trained and what is innate natural talent. The latter is the factor that makes the greatest players so great.
Leading by Example: Pele and Brazilian Football
Legendary players like Pelé don’t play by themselves; they lead from the front, taking the whole team with them. This is the reason why Brazil has won three World Cups. If you've watched the movie 'Pele: The Legend,' you can clearly see that Pelé was thinking sky-high at any stage of his career.
Even today, watching his skills on YouTube and comparing them with any player in the world, it’s evident that Pelé’s legacy is eternal. Brazilian football, despite being a conventional game, always has the saying, 'Every rise has its fall.'
In conclusion, while the game has evolved, the innate talent and leadership of Pelé would undoubtedly place him among the top current players. Whether he could stay at the top would depend on his ability to adapt and evolve with the sport.