Pele is widely regarded as the world's greatest-ever player, but the three-time FIFA World Cup winner is so revered in Brazil that a Real Madrid star sought out his approval before signing for Los Blancos.
"Cristiano (Ronaldo) and Neymar are sources of inspiration for me, I am a big fan of them," he said.
"Pele, Neymar and Robinho mean a lot to me and also to my favourite team, which is Santos. Neymar is the player I followed the most, but I had the chance to meet all three of them.
"Before I completed my signing for Real Madrid, I visited Pele's house and he gave me his blessing."
Rodrygo has recorded seven goals and two assists since joining Real at the start of the season, and has already won two international caps with the Selecao.
