The Citizen (Gauteng)

Who said what

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“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.”

Brazilian legend Pele, who is widely regarded as Maradona’s adversary as the best player in history.

“It is a very sad day for all Argentines and football. He leaves us but he does not go because he is eternal. I am left with many of the nice moments we shared and I want to send my condolence­s to all his family and friends.”

Six-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, who played under Maradona for Argentina at the 2010 World Cup, and has struggled to match his success at internatio­nal level.

“By some distance the best player of my generation and arguably the greatest of all time. After a blessed but troubled life, hopefully he’ll finally find some comfort in the hands of God. #RipDiego.”

Former England striker Gary Lineker, who was on the losing side thanks to Maradona’s two iconic goals for Argentina in the 1986 World Cup quarterfin­al.

“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.”

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner and Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

“There was a banner in Argentina one time I read years ago, it said: ‘It doesn’t matter what you have done with your life, it matters what you have done with our lives’. There are a few incredible players in all of history, he is one of them. For people of our generation, the World Cup in ‘86 in Mexico was something which made this sport better.”

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

“I’m 53 years old and it feels like my entire life, he was part of it. When I was very young – maybe eight or nine, 10 years old – I saw him for the first time and he was 16 or 17. In any video, juggling the ball, from that moment on he was the player for me.”

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp.

“We will never forget you. You will always be with us. #ThankyouDi­ego”

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero, who was previously married to and has a child with Maradona’s daughter Gianinna.

“Our sport lost one of its biggest idols. I lost a great friend, whose talent inspired me from the time I was a boy. I’m in shock that he’s gone, but grateful that our paths crossed in life. El Pibe, your legacy is eternal. Your magic on the pitch will never be forgotten.”

Former Brazil, Barcelona and Real Madrid striker Ronaldo.

“It is a huge loss for the world in general and for the world of football. I have the 1986 World Cup engraved in my head.”

Real Madrid coach and former France star Zinedine Zidane.

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