Pelé Names Scottish Footballer Good Enough for Brazil

Pelé identified Denis Law as the only British player he believed was good enough to represent the Brazil national team.

What did Pelé say about Denis Law?

Pelé's compliment to Law was recalled by Sir Alex Ferguson, who stated that Pelé said Law was the only British player who could get in the great Brazil team.

Law remains one of the greatest players ever to wear a Manchester United shirt, collecting two league championships, an FA Cup, a European Cup and the Ballon d'Or during the 1960s.

Why did Pelé admire Denis Law?

Pelé's admiration for Law was likely due to his impressive skills on the field, which earned him numerous accolades and recognition as one of the greatest players of his time.

Pelé spent the majority of his club career with Santos in Brazil before later joining American outfit New York Cosmos, but he still followed football on the continent and had immense respect for several British players.

Who else did Pelé admire?

Pelé also had immense respect for England's World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore, saying he was the best centre-back he had seen.

He also praised Sir Stanley Matthews, saying he "taught us the way football should be played."

Pelé's opinions on British players were likely formed during his time playing against them, including during the 1966 World Cup, where he was already the most famous footballer on the planet.

What was the outcome of the 1966 World Cup for Pelé?

Unfortunately, injuries limited Pelé's impact, and Brazil exited the competition in the first round after playing only three matches, on 19 July 1966.

Pelé's legacy continues to be felt in the football world, with his opinions and admiration for other players still widely recognized and respected today, including his praise for Denis Law, which was recalled by Sir Alex Ferguson after Law's passing on 20 January 2025, at the age of 85.