Pele, the Brazilian legend regarded by many as the best footballer to ever grace the planet, has had some very nice things to say about Brendan Rodgers!
He’s primarily based his opinion on Luis Suarez’s progression under the Northern Irishman, who’s enjoyed a winning start to life at Celtic north of the border since returning to management after Liverpool sacked him in October last year.
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“I think Celtic are very lucky to have a manager with the qualities of Brendan,” Pele said, quoted by Football365.
“Luis Suarez was a really good player when he went to Liverpool but I believe Brendan gave him great coaching, guidance and advice and made him a better player and a better person.
“Suarez was prepared well for his move from Liverpool to Barcelona after working under Brendan. Celtic have a good reputation around the world – and have a good manager.”
Pele also once named El Hadji Diouf one of the greatest living footballers on the planet and has aired some rather questionable football opinions in the past – but still – praise indeed!
Rodgers undeniably had a fantastic impact on Suarez’s career. To think a player with the Uruguayan’s talent was plying his trade in Holland until the age of 23 suggests he wasn’t maximising it – even though he plundered over 50 goals during his last season with Ajax…
Our former boss gave him freedom of expression, importantly, and built a side which complemented his strengths – with Daniel Sturridge, Raheem Sterling and Coutinho playing close to him.
It was perhaps Suarez who made Rodgers look good eventually though, as when the striker moved to Barcelona, Liverpool collapsed from title challengers to also-rans and the manager lost his job a season later!