10. Chicharito (Javier Hernández Balcázar)
Known as “Chicharito” (meaning “little pea” in Spanish), the Mexican striker earned his nickname from his father, Javier Hernández Gutiérrez, who was also a footballer and was called “Chícharo” (pea) due to his green eyes. Chicharito became a global star at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Bayer Leverkusen, known for his poaching instincts and infectious energy.
9. Nani (Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha)
The Portuguese winger, famous for his flair and creativity, adopted the name “Nani” as a child, inspired by a character from a Mozambican TV show. Nani became a key player for Manchester United, winning multiple Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League, and later shining for Portugal alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
8. Hulk (Givanildo Vieira de Souza)
Known for his incredible strength and powerful shots, the Brazilian forward earned the nickname “Hulk” due to his resemblance to the comic book hero.
7. Cafu (Marcos Evangelista de Moraes)
The legendary Brazilian right-back, widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time, is universally known by his nickname, Cafu.
The name originated during his childhood, as his older brother mistakenly called him “Cafu” instead of “Marquinhos,” and it stuck. Cafu became a symbol of leadership and endurance, captaining Brazil to their 2002 World Cup victory and earning the nickname “The Pendulum” for his tireless runs up and down the flank. His jersey name, “Cafu,” became synonymous with excellence and longevity in football.
6. Juninho Pernambucano (Antônio Augusto Ribeiro Reis Jr.)
Well, it would seem the Brazilian samba boys love their nicknames, doesn’t it? A free-kick maestro, perhaps, the best freekick taker the footballing world has ever seen, Juninho simplified his name to reflect his Brazilian roots, becoming a legend at Lyon and beyond.
5. Deco (Anderson Luís de Souza)
Fondly called Deco 20 by football fans, the Brazilian-born Portuguese midfielder, known simply as Deco, shortened his name for simplicity. He became a key player for FC Porto, Barcelona, and Chelsea, winning the UEFA Champions League and multiple league titles.
4. Zico (Arthur Antunes Coimbra)
The Brazilian maestro, known as Zico, adopted his nickname from childhood. He is considered one of the greatest attacking midfielders of all time and a legend for Flamengo and the Brazilian national team.
3. Kaká (Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite)
A Brazilian playmaker and Ballon d’Or winner, Kaká adopted his childhood nickname, which stuck throughout his illustrious career at AC Milan, Real Madrid, and beyond.
2. Ronaldinho (Ronaldo de Assis Moreira)
The Brazilian magician, known for his dazzling skills and infectious smile, used “Ronaldinho” to differentiate himself from fellow Brazilian legend Ronaldo.
1. Pelé (Edson Arantes do Nascimento)
Widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, Pelé was born on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil. His full name, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, was rarely used, as he became universally known by his nickname, Pelé, which he reportedly disliked as a child. The origin of the name remains unclear, but it stuck and became synonymous with footballing excellence.
Pelé burst onto the global stage as a 17-year-old during the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, where he scored a hat-trick in the semifinal and two goals in the final to lead Brazil to their first World Cup title. His skill, vision, and goal-scoring ability were unmatched, and he went on to win two more World Cups with Brazil (1962 and 1970), the only player in history to achieve this feat.
Throughout his career, Pelé played almost exclusively for Santos FC in Brazil, where he won numerous domestic and international titles, including two Copa Libertadores trophies. He later joined the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League (NASL), helping popularize football in the United States.
Pelé scored over 1,000 career goals, a milestone that solidified his status as a legend. Beyond his on-field achievements, he became a global ambassador for the sport, known for his humility, charisma, and dedication to promoting peace and unity through football. Pelé passed away on December 29, 2022, but his legacy as “The King of Football” continues to inspire generations.
