For Brazil and the Olympics, it has often been a case of "always the bridesmaid, never the bride." Despite being runners-up in five competitions, the Brazilian team has never managed to win Olympic gold. Obviously, that's because Pele never got to play in the competition. Back in his day, professional players were not allowed to play in the Olympics, and so the Brazilian legend never got the chance to compete for the gold medal.
Pele won three World Cups with Brazil, but was never allowed to compete at the Olympics. Photo: @EnglandMemories | Twitter
Of course, Olympic teams are allowed professionals now, and with the Olympics coming to Rio this summer, that is something the three-time World Cup winner would like to change.
"I think I'm going to prepare to play this Olympics," Pele said in an interview with Goal. "Maybe I'll win this championship for Brazil. In five months, I have to be prepared for that."
We think it's pretty safe to assume that he's joking, however you can't really deny that if he did come out of retirement, he would certainly be better than Fred.
75-year-old Pele...or Fred? We think we know the answer to that. Photo: @Telegraph | Twitter
Sure, he may be 75-years-old, but we think he's still got it. Olympic teams are allowed three over-23 players, so would anybody really object to giving him a call-up? Besides Neymar, is there really anyone else that would keep him out of the side? We don't think so.
We hope with every fiber of our beings that Pele actually does try and join the Olympic squad, because that would officially be the coolest thing ever. If he came out of retirement and won a gold medal...that's it...our job is done. Soccer is henceforth entirely meaningless because nothing will ever top that. It's been a good ride guys.
Brazil kick off their Olympic campaign against South Africa on August 4.
(H/T Goal)
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