– It makes a strong impression that Pelé is dead, because he was the king of football. I think the whole world feels the loss of him, says Teresa Areleon to news, who meets her on the street in Rio de Janeiro. Earlier on Thursday, it became known that football icon Pelé had passed away, aged 82. The Brazilian’s health has been poor for some time. The death was confirmed by his agent on Thursday evening. The towering statue of Christ is lit up in yellow and green for and in memory of Pelé. Photo: RICARDO MORAES / Reuters The towering statue of Christ is lit up in yellow and green for and in memory of Pelé. Photo: RICARDO MORAES / Reuters – He inspired millions of Brazilians. Not least the poor, black and colored, who understood through him that they too could achieve something great, says Areleon. She believes everyone would like to be like Pelé. – Not only on the football field, but also in other areas of life, she adds. Residents of São Paulo remember Pelé and are photographed in front of a mural where he hugs Batman. Photo: CARLA CARNIEL / Reuters Tributes from around the world Condolences and tributes from every corner of the world have been shared on social media since the news of his death became known. – The king of football has left us, but his legacy will live on forever, writes the French footballer Kylian Mbappé on Instagram. Cristiano Ronaldo also took to Instagram to send his condolences. – An inspiration for so many millions. A reference yesterday, today and forever. “Everything you see any player do, Pelé did it first”, writes Erling Braut Haaland on Twitter. He adds “rest in peace” and an emoji of a football and a king. Wembley Stadium in London lit up in yellow and green on Thursday night. Photo: Kieran Cleeves / AP – Could have been president Michel de Sousa sits at a table in the sunny Brazilian city. – This is sad news. Pelé is the king. He could have been president of Brazil, de Sousa believes. Michel de Sousa in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Arnt Stefansen / news He too has looked up to the man who has been named footballer of the century. – He was an enormous inspiration – both for me, but also for so many others. – Many players have learned from him, and those who came after him have learned from what they have seen on TV and what they have been told. Pelé is for eternity, says de Sousa. – Pele is Pele.
ttn-69