Pele’s emotional parting message to Argentina legend and friend Diego Maradona comes sadly true after his death
PELE’S emotional parting message to Argentina legend and friend Diego Maradona has sadly come true.
The King passed away at the age of 82 in Brazil today.
And football lovers worldwide are mourning the loss of the greatest player in history.
But fans can take some consolation in Pele’s words when fellow icon Maradona died in 2020.
The Argentina hero is widely recognised as the only footballer who gave Pele a run for his money.
And after Maradona’s death was announced, Pele wrote a touching tribute in which he said “I hope we will play soccer together in the sky.”
The full statement read: “Sad news today. I have lost a dear friend and the world has lost a legend.
“There is much more to say, but for now may God give his family strength. One day I hope we will play soccer together in the sky.”
Pele’s deeply warm words are sure to give hope to football supporters, who have now seen the game’s greatest two players pass away.
Pele was left heartbroken when Maradona died, and later posted an even longer tribute to his good friend.
He said: “Seven days have passed since you left.
“Many people loved to compare us throughout their lives. You were a genius that charmed the world. A magician with the ball at his feet. A true legend.
“But above all that, for me, you will always be a great friend, with an even bigger heart.
“Today, I know the world would be much better if we could compare less to each other and start admiring each other more. So, I want to say that you are incomparable.
“Your career was marked by honesty. And in your unique and particular way, you taught us that we have to love and say “I love you” a lot more often.
“Your quick departure didn’t let me say it to you, so I will just write: I love you, Diego.
One day, in heaven, we will play together on the same team
Pele
“My great friend, thank you very much for our entire journey. One day, in heaven, we will play together on the same team.
“And it will be the first time that I raise my fist in the air in triumph on the pitch without celebrating a goal. It will be because I can finally embrace you again.”
Pele won three World Cups with Brazil, while Maradona won one with Argentina.
But despite seeing Brazil’s South American rivals scoop another with victory over France this month, Pele could not contain his delight at the thought of Maradona celebrating in heaven.
Pele said: “Today, football continues to tell its story, as always, in an enthralling way. Messi winning his first World Cup, as his trajectory deserved.
“My dear friend, Mbappe, scoring four goals in a final. What a gift it was to watch this spectacle to the future of our sport.
“And I couldn’t fail to congratulate Morocco for the incredible campaign. It’s great to see Africa shine.
“Congratulations Argentina! Certainly Diego is smiling now.”