Global football stars including Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have paid tribute to Argentine legend Diego Maradona.
The football icon died earlier today.
The 60-year-old and greatest footballer of his generation suffered a cardiac arrest at a home in Tigre, Argentina.
Maradona had been recuperating from the removal of a blood clot on the brain.
Speaking on 2 November, Maradona’s doctor, Leopoldo Luque, told reporters the procedure was a ‘routine surgery’.
He added: “We are going to operate today. He is lucid, he understands, he agrees with the intervention.”
Since news of his passing was reported, there has been an outpouring of emotion, with people sending their condolences to his family and sharing their memories of watching him play.
Fellow Argentine Lionel Messi, who has often been compared to the legend, wrote on Instagram:
” ‘He leaves us but does not leave, because Diego is eternal.
‘‘I keep all the beautiful moments lived with him and I wanted to take the opportunity to send my condolences to all his family and friends. RIP.’
Cristiano Ronaldo has also paid tribute, using Instagram:
“Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius.
“One of the best ever. An unparalleled magician. He leaves too soon, but leaves a legacy without limits and a void that will never be filled.
“Rest in peace, ace. You will never be forgotten. ”
Pele, considered the greatest footballer on earth also commented:
“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”.
