Pelé: The Ten Hearts of the King

A Biography of the World's Greatest Soccer Player

By José Castello

Introduction

Pelé is widely regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time. He was a three-time World Cup winner, and he scored over 1,000 goals in his career. But beyond his incredible skill on the field, Pelé was also a remarkable man off the field. He was a humanitarian, a philanthropist, and a role model to millions of people around the world.

In this biography, José Castello tells the story of Pelé's life, from his humble beginnings in Brazil to his rise to global stardom. Castello draws on interviews with Pelé, his family, and friends, as well as archival footage and photographs, to create a comprehensive and intimate portrait of the man behind the legend.

The Early Years

Pelé was born Edson Arantes do Nascimento in Três Corações, Brazil, in 1940. He grew up in poverty, but he showed a natural talent for soccer from an early age. He began playing for local teams, and by the time he was 15, he had signed with Santos FC, one of the most successful clubs in Brazil.

The Rise to Stardom

Pelé quickly became a star at Santos. He helped the team win numerous championships, and he scored goals at an incredible rate. In 1958, he was selected to play for Brazil in the World Cup. He was only 17 years old, but he made a huge impact on the tournament. He scored six goals in four games, including two in the final against Sweden. Brazil won the World Cup, and Pelé became a global superstar.

The World Cup Years

Pelé went on to play in three more World Cups. He won the tournament again in 1962 and 1970. He is the only player in history to win the World Cup three times. Pelé also won numerous individual awards, including the Ballon d'Or, which is given to the best player in the world.

The Later Years

After retiring from soccer, Pelé continued to be involved in the sport as a commentator, ambassador, and businessman. He also worked as a humanitarian and philanthropist. He was a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations, and he founded the Pelé Foundation, which helps to improve the lives of children in Brazil.

The Legacy

Pelé is considered one of the greatest athletes of all time. He was a gifted soccer player, but he was also a role model and an inspiration to millions of people around the world. He will always be remembered as the King of Soccer.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are a fan of soccer, or if you are simply interested in the life of one of the most remarkable men of the 20th century, then you should read this book. José Castello has written a comprehensive and intimate biography of Pelé that is both informative and inspiring. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about the life and legacy of the King of Soccer.