The demise of Argentina World Cup winner Diego Armando Maradona on Wednesday send the football world into mourning.
Maradona was confirmed dead after suffering from cardiac arrest less than a month after turning 60.
‘El Diez’ as he is known inspired Argentina to FIFA World Cup ™ glory at Mexico 1986 and to the Italy 1990 Final, while he dazzled for Boca Juniors and Barcelona before propelling Napoli, who had never won Serie A, to two Scudetti and the UEFA Cup.
The football world was left devastated by his death, and took to social media to pay their respects to Maradona.
Here are how some players and football associations expressed devastation over the demise of Maradona.
Lionel Messi: “It’s a very sad day for all Argentinians and for football. He leaves us but he doesn’t leave us, because Diego is eternal. I will keep all the beautiful moments I lived through with him, and I want to take this opportunity to send my condolences to all his family and friends. RIP. ”
Pele: “What sad news. I have lost a great friend and the world has lost a legend. There’s still so much to be said, but for now, may God give strength to his relatives. One day I hope we can play football together in the sky. ”
Cristiano Ronaldo: “Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius. One of the greatest of all time. An unparalleled magician. He leaves too soon, but leaves a legacy that has no limits and a void that will never be filled. Rest in peace, great. You will never be forgotten. ”
Neymar: ” You’ll always be in our memories, you left your legacy. Football thanks you. Rest in peace, legend.”
Barcelona: “FC Barcelona expresses its deepest condolences regarding the death of Diego Armando Maradona, a player for our club (1982-84) and an icon of world football. Rest in peace Diego.”
Roger Miller: “I can’t believe it. My great friend Diego Maradona passed away today. Terrible news. Sad year. Rest In Peace LEGEND.
My sincere condolences to his family and the people of @Argentina. 🙏🇦🇷 “
Daniel Sturridge: “Just woke up to the news of Diego Maradona passing away 😭. R.I.P to an absolute legend and true inspiration throughout my career. I watched and studied his game so much Cuz he was a lefty. Thank you for everything KING. Rest in paradise. Condolences to his family and friends ❤️
Carlo Ancelotti: “You were always a genius. Today is a very sad day and a great loss.
But you my friend are eternal.
Ciao Diego.
Rest In Peace.”
