Circa 1976 Pele NY Cosmos Match-Worn Jersey

Pelé’s New York Cosmos Jersey: A Symbol of Soccer Greatness

The Legendary Pelé

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, famously known as Pelé, is celebrated as one of the greatest football players of all time. His illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades, including being named the Football Player of the Century by the IFFHS in 1999 and the Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee. Pelé’s remarkable ability to score goals is unparalleled, with a record of 760 official goals, 541 of which were in league championships, making him the top scorer of all time. In total, Pelé scored an astounding 1,281 goals in 1,363 games.

Transition to the New York Cosmos

After a stellar 17-year career with Santos, Pelé retired from Brazilian club football in 1972. However, his passion for the game led him to come out of semi-retirement to join the New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League (NASL) in 1975. Over three seasons, Pelé captivated American audiences, bringing global attention to soccer in the United States.

The Iconic Jersey

This particular jersey is a testament to Pelé’s enduring legacy and his time with the New York Cosmos. The jersey features the “ellesse” manufacturer’s tag inside the rear collar, with a second tag displaying four countries’ flags, including the U.S. At the left chest, the “ellesse” embroidered patch is prominently displayed alongside the “Cosmos” team disc patch. The player number “10” is emblazoned on the front, back, and right sleeve, while the name “PELE” graces the back, all crafted in blue tackle twill.

• Historical Significance: Represents Pelé’s influential role in popularizing soccer in the United States.
• Iconic Player: Worn by Pelé, a global ambassador for the sport and a symbol of excellence.
• Unique Design: Features the distinctive “ellesse” and “Cosmos” patches, adding to its collectible value.
• Game-Used Authenticity: The jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and in our opinion, shows appropriate use.

A Legacy Beyond the Field

Pelé’s impact on soccer transcends his playing days. His move to the New York Cosmos was pivotal in elevating the sport’s profile in America, paving the way for future generations of soccer enthusiasts. This jersey is not merely a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Pelé’s enduring influence and the indelible mark he left on the game. For those interested in acquiring a piece of this legendary history, explore our sports memorabilia auctions and discover more unique items.

If you have your own piece of soccer history, consider reaching out to our consignment experts at Grey Flannel Auctions. We are always eager to appraise and showcase exceptional sports memorabilia that tells a story of greatness.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.