Past and present players of Everton and Liverpool have paid tribute to Brazil legend Pele who has died at the age of 82.
It was announced on Thursday that the footballing icon, who is most remembered for representing Brazil, had passed away. Having suffered from a series of health issues in recent years, Pele was diagnosed with cancer in September 2021.
News of Pele’s death has led to tributes being paid across the world of football and sport. The Twitter accounts of both Everton and Liverpool have already sent messages honouring the Brazil legend.
Now some players, past and present, of the Blues and the Reds have paid tribute to Pele.
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Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler said: “RIP to one of the greatest players of all time.” While another former Red, Lucas Leiva, said: “Rest in peace King. Thank you for representing Brazil with your talent so well!! Heaven is partying.”
Current Liverpool midfielder, and fellow Brazilian, Fabinho wrote: “Your legacy will be eternal. Thank you, Pele. Rest in peace!” And he was joined by his compatriot Arthur Melo who said: “Rest in peace, King. We will be forever grateful for everything you did for us Brazilians. My condolences to family and friends!”
Liverpool legend Ian Rush also paid tribute to Pele, saying: “A very sad day for football. An icon and a true great of the game who touched millions around the world with his football and personality will be remembered forever. Rest in peace, Pele. My thoughts are with his family.” He was joined by fellow Reds legend Steven Gerrard, who wrote: “RIP Pele.”
Jamie Carragher added: "It’s a very sad day for the football world when an icon like Pele passes away. I’ll never forget the awe as a child of watching the VHS tape of Brazil 70, the greatest national team anyone has ever seen. RIP to one of the Gods of the game."
Former Everton striker Richarlison also paid an emotional tribute to Pele. In a lengthy message on Instagram, the Brazilian wrote: “Today, football says goodbye to its most beautiful chapter.
“From the guy who enchanted the world and changed the history of the game forever. You will always be the greatest, because 60 years ago, with all the difficulties you faced, you were already doing what few can do today. The guy who dedicated his thousandth goal to children and made our country discover that it could do much more.
“You are and always will be incomparable, King. You are eternal! Thank you and may God welcome you with open arms.”
He was joined by another former Blue, Wayne Rooney, who said: “Rest in peace, Pele. Legend.”
