Despite club president Luis Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro insisting that Pelé would be registered as a member of the playing party for the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup, the winner of two Intercontinental Cups in 1962 and 1963 has distanced himself from the claims.
Current Santos boss Muricy Ramalho was questioned on the debate today, but avoided passing comment on the debate, stating simply that he hopes Pelé can play a role in his team’s preparations.
“His presence is always important,” said Brazil’s most succesful manager of the past decade.
“In the final weeks of the Libertadores, he was so enthusiastic and his spirit was infectious.
“If he can take the kick-off, that would be great. But, just having him there to speak to the players will help us a lot.”
