The death of former Brazilian footballer, Pele was confirmed on Thursday, December 29. He died aged 82.
Since his death, world leaders and footballer kept pouring their tributes to the World’s great. His fellow compatriot, Neymar led the tributes, saying “he’s gone but his magic remains”.
Pele, the Brazil football legend, died on Thursday at the Albert Einstein hospital in Sao Paulo following a battle with cancer and reaction poured in around the world to remember the only player to have won the World Cup three times.
Neymar, who is Brazil’s joint-highest scorer in men’s international football alongside Pele on 77 goals, posted an emotional message following the death of his idol.
“I would say before Pelé football was just a sport. Pelé has changed it all. He turned football into art, into entertainment.”
Christ the Redeemer, the statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, and the Wembley arch were both lit up in the colours of Brazil on Thursday night to honour Pele.
Paris Saint-Germain forwards Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe also paid their respects to Pele.
Mbappe posted an image of himself and Pele with the words: “The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. RIP KING.”
Messi simply wrote: “Rest in peace, Pele”.
Gary Lineker wrote: “Pele has died. The most divine of footballers and joyous of men. He played a game only a few chosen ones have come close to. 3 times he lifted the most coveted gold trophy in that beautiful yellow shirt. He may have left us but he’ll always have footballing immortality. RIP Pele.”
“Pele was one of the best to play the beautiful game and one of the most recognized athletes in the world. In addition, he understood the power of sports to bring people together. Our thoughts are with his family and all who loved and admired him.”
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