Thank you, Pelé!

By Emir Sader 

Those fortunate enough to be born in the 1940s had the privilege of witnessing the entire career of the greatest football player of all time. For those who didn't have that privilege, it seems like just another event in someone's life. But for those who love football, these were unforgettable experiences.

For those who lived through this long and wonderful career, there is no doubt that Pelé was the best football player of all time. These experiences began very early in his life; at 15 years old, he was already dazzling everyone at Santos.

It was difficult to play against Pelé's team, even as a fan of the only team that shared the championships back then – Palmeiras, the team I support. There was no way to deny Pelé's brilliant plays.

A player who, from an early age, could kick with both feet with equal skill. He headed the ball very high, despite not being very tall. He dribbled like no other player. He scored brilliant goals, dribbling from defense to attack and into the goal.

For Brazilians, we soon witnessed his consecration with his unparalleled performance in the World Cup in Sweden, still a 17-year-old boy, making brilliant plays that would have been impressive for any player, of any age.

He then led Brazil to win three world championships. He is the only player to win three World Cups: those of 1958, 1962 and 1970.

Fortunately, anthologies of the unparalleled plays he made, invented, created, and recreated are now available. Otherwise, it would be impossible to tell future generations about his brilliant moves.

Pelé was the perfect player, because he could kick with both feet with equal skill, dribble in every direction, pass to others, and execute magical one-two passes. He almost reinvented football.

We were born and raised, for many generations, accustomed to seeing him in stadiums and on television. In Brazil, he captivated the world. He achieved impossible results with his Santos team, defeating the world's top teams, and with the Brazilian national team, making Brazil, at that moment, the country of football.

He was a genius as a football player. That has nothing to do with the person. Nothing takes away from him everything he gave us, everything he gave to football.

Remembering watching his games, with the other genius, Garrincha, or with his teammate Coutinho, or reviewing films of his career, we thank him for everything he did for us and for football.

Thank you, Pelé!