Is Pelé Underrated? A Comprehensive Analysis

The question of whether Pelé is undervalued often sparks debate among football fans and analysts. In this article, we will explore various arguments both in favor and against the claim of Pelé being underrated. Factors such as his era of play, comparative performance with other greats, and his overall impact on the sport will be considered.

Arguments for Pelé Being Underrated

Despite his undeniably illustrious career, some argue that Pelé is still undervalued compared to other iconic footballers. Here are some key points that support this notion:

Excellence vs. Legacy

Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi have often been mentioned as potential rivals to Pelé in terms of the legacy and accolades. Maradona’s two FIFA World Cup victories (1986 and 1990) and Messi’s three (2010, 2014, and 2022) stand out as impressive achievements. Messi has also been awarded the Ballon d'Or five times, an achievement that Pelé never managed to achieve.

Scoring Records

While Pelé is celebrated for his scoring record, some argue that other legends like Ronaldo Nazario and Romario are better suited for comparison. Ronaldo Nazario scored 15 goals in FIFA World Cups, while Pelé managed 12. Romario is known to have scored an additional 15 goals compared to Pelé in international matches, with total tally of 572 goals against Pelé's 557.

Championships and Individual Achievements

Pelé’s three FIFA World Cup victories (1958, 1962, and 1970) are indeed remarkable, but his team-centric approach might sometimes detract from individual accolades. Additionally, Pelé never received a Silver Boot or Golden Boot award, despite opportunities to do so in his career, most notably in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico, where the award went to Jairzinho.

Recognition and Polls

In polls such as FIFA's Player of the Century, Pelé received less than 20% of the votes, while Diego Maradona received over 50%. Although the award was split, the clear dominance of Maradona in such significant votes highlights the perception of Pelé being somewhat overshadowed. Furthermore, in a comparison of extraordinary players between the 1970 and 1986 FIFA World Cups, Pelé placed fifth, while Mario Zagallo, a two-time FIFA World Cup winner both as a player (1958 and 1962) and coach (1970), received some of the highest votes.

Arguments for Pelé Not Being Underrated

On the contrary, many argue that Pelé has earned his standing as one of the greatest ever footballers:

Unprecedented Success

Pelé’s unparalleled success is on full display in his three FIFA World Cup victories. This record still stands as a testament to his skill and consistency at the highest level of football. His ability to perform under pressure, as demonstrated in major tournaments, remains a benchmark for any footballer.

Cultural Impact

Beyond his sporting achievements, Pelé has a profound cultural impact. Known as the 'Black Pearl,' he was an early global ambassador for football, helping to popularize the sport in the United States and other countries. His influence extended beyond the field, inspiring generations and making football more accessible to a broader audience.

Recognition Within the Sport

While Pelé may not have received individual honors like some of his contemporaries, his legacy is widely recognized. Many regard him as a symbol of football's enduring spirit and passion. His contributions to both the sport and global football culture are immeasurable.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether Pelé is considered undervalued depends on individual perspectives, historical context, and the specific achievements used for comparison. His impact on football—both on and off the pitch—is undeniable, and he remains one of the most influential figures in the sport. Nevertheless, opinions on his legacy will continue to vary among fans and analysts, making this an ongoing and subjective debate.