In January 1969, Brazil appointed João Saldanha as national team coach, a controversial choice given his background as a journalist and a communist during the country's military dictatorship. Saldanha quickly ended regional politicking by naming his squad unilaterally, and Brazil cruised through World Cup qualification. However, his erratic behaviour—including waving a gun and public drunkenness—combined with tactical concerns over his outdated 4-2-4 formation, led to his sacking in March 1970 after a falling-out with Pelé.
Mario Zagallo, a two-time World Cup winner as a player, took over. He immediately reassured Pelé of his place, declaring the team would be 'Pelé and 10 more.' Zagallo then spent months refining the side, moving Wilson Piazza to defence to add quality, promoting Clodoaldo as a box-to-box midfielder, and deploying Rivellino as a false left-winger to maintain attacking balance. The result was a fluid, attacking unit that would conquer Mexico.
Pelé's inclusion was far from certain before Zagallo's intervention. Saldanha had questioned his fitness and eyesight, while other coaches and even a fan poll suggested dropping him. Zagallo's faith proved pivotal, as Pelé delivered a vintage tournament, scoring four goals and orchestrating Brazil's attack. The team's preparation, blending communist intrigue, tactical innovation, and a star player's redemption, set the stage for a cultural revolution in football.
