Rio de Janeiro (AFP) – Who says what after the death of Brazilian football legend Pele on Thursday at the age of 82:
“Before Pele, ‘10’ was just a number. I used to say that football before Pele was just a sport. Turn football into art, into entertainment.”
– His Brazilian compatriot and current star, Neymar.
“My friend, so many victories, titles and stories in common. He leaves an eternal and unforgettable legacy. The one who stopped the world many times.”
Mario Zagallo (91), Brazil’s teammate in the 1958 and 1962 World Cup-winning teams.
“The King of Football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. The King of Rips.”
French international striker Kylian Mbappe.
“He will never be forgotten and his memory will live on forever in all football fans. Rest in peace, King Pele.”
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo
“Rest in peace, Pele.”
World Cup winner Lionel Messi.
“Few Brazilians have carried the name of our country as much as he has… He didn’t just play. He put on a full show. Thanks Pele.”
Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
The king of kings is dead. Unusual player. unique. Three-time World Cup winner, more than a thousand goals. My idol when I was young. He made football a truly beautiful and international game. The time I got to play alongside him in Escape to Victory was a dream come true. RIP pellet. »
Former Argentine international Osvaldo Ardiles.
“With the death of Pele, football has lost one of its best legends, if not its best. Like all legends, the King seemed immortal.”
French coach Didier Deschamps.
“Pelé was one of the greatest players to ever play this beautiful game. As one of the most famous athletes in the world, he understood the power of sport to bring people together. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who loved and admired him.”
Former US President Barack Obama.
“Football has lost the greatest player in its history. Pele called me his brother. It was an unimaginable honor for me. Football will always be yours!”
– Former German international star Franz Beckenbauer, who played alongside Pele at the New York Cosmos in the 1970s.
With the passing of Pele, the world has lost a great sporting icon. »
Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee.
“Pelé’s name will always be synonymous with sporting art and genius. His lasting influence on the sport of football is invaluable. Rest in peace Ray.”
– New York Cosmos, Pele’s former club in the 1970s.
“A sporting legend. Rest in peace, King Pele.”
Athletics legend Usain Bolt.
“I have so many memories of Pele, without a doubt the best footballer I played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played with). For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I am proud to be with him on the pitch. RIP Pelé and thank you »
– Geoff Hurst, 1966 World Cup winner in England
“The world mourns the greatest footballer in history and an incredible personality. He celebrated the game like no other. Dear Pele, I am deeply saddened and honor you and your work with your life. My deepest condolences to your family and friends.”
Sepp Blatter, former FIFA President
“Pele had a magnetic presence, and when I was with him the rest of the world stopped.”
Current FIFA President Gianni Infantino
“Anything you see any player do pellet first. RIP.”
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.
© 2022 AFP
