To compare a footballer from Pele's age to Messi's (our current) brings many difficulties. The sport has changed a lot. Tactically and physically.
But nevertheless, a great player is a great player. If you would time travel Messi to Pele's age, he obviously would dominate, if not even more, just the same as he has done in our time.
The same with Pele: if he grew up around our time and got the same disciplined training, media coverage,physical benefits etc, he would surely succeed to be one of the greats too.
A truly legendary player comes around very rarely, and when he does, we all take notice.
no matter if it's 50 years ago or now.