Pele: The Autobiography
SynopsisPlot
From the poverty-stricken streets of Sao Paulo to an international icon and one of the most celebrated footballers of all time, Pele's life story is as extraordinary as it is enrapturing. With his trademark wit and deference, the legend draws us into a wonderful story lit by insight and humour and encompassing everything you ever wanted to know about the great man himself.
Story
About this book
Pele: The Autobiography traces the life of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known worldwide as Pele, from his childhood in Brazil to his years as one of the most recognized football players in history. He grew up in poverty in the state of Sao Paulo, where he learned the game on unpaved streets before joining Santos FC as a teenager. By the age of seventeen, he had already played in a World Cup final, scoring twice as Brazil won the 1958 tournament in Sweden.
The book covers his three World Cup victories with Brazil, in 1958, 1962, and 1970, along with his long career at Santos and his later move to the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League. Pele recounts the pressures of fame, his relationship with Brazilian football culture, and the physical toll of competing at the highest level for more than two decades. He also addresses episodes away from the pitch, including business dealings and his public role as a sporting ambassador.
Written in a direct, personal tone, the autobiography gives Pele's own account of key moments in his career and the people who shaped it. He reflects on what football meant in Brazil during a period of rapid social and political change.
