The Pick: Nilton Santos is one of only a few defenders who made my Top 100, but his position can be somewhat misleading because he scored more goals over the course of his career than many star forwards. The Brazilian legend also had amazing knowledge of the game, so he was nicknamed “The Encyclopedia.” He played his entire pro career for one club, and for Brazil he collected 75 caps, made four World Cup rosters, and hoisted two Jules Rimet Trophies.
The Flick: Who should play Nilton in my fictional film depicting his legendary soccer career? Well, if you have ever seen a photo of Nilton in his youth, you know he looks sort of like Vin Diesel in Find Me Guilty. Now, the Diesel also has the large body to play Nilton, and I think the cerebral approach he brings to acting will allow him to deftly portray “The Encyclopedia.” Ah, who am I kidding. Vin couldn’t act his way out of a paper bag, but he’s got the look nailed.
The Limerick: Nilton deserves a great ode, but I only had time for this rhyme:
Nilton Santos was the first defender to also help on the attack,
For years he notched goals while roaming from the left back,
In fact, when it came to going both ways,
Nilton always left opponents in a daze,
And later he entertained their lovely wives in the sack.
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