Football is mourning the loss of Brazil legend Pele after the former striker sadly passed away earlier this week following a lengthy spell at the hospital.
Pele has been regarded as one of the best footballers to ever play the game and his passing has sparked great sorrow within the sport, with several United players taking to social media to pay tribute.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game against Wolves in the Premier League, United manager Erik ten Hag became the latest figure to pay tribute to Pele, arguing that the former Santos star changed the game.
“It’s really sad news,” Ten Hag is quoted as saying on the official Manchester United website.
“We [have] lost a big personality, a great football player, a winner of three World Cup titles which is massive and over 1000 goals. He was very elegant and I think he changed the game.
“He was a gentleman in every perspective.”
Pele is the only player in history to win the World Cup three times and his passing has left many in mourning, with several leagues across Europe already confirming they will honour the late icon when club football resumes.
Pele was spotted at Old Trafford on a number of occasions during Sir Alex Ferguson’s time at the club and United were quick to send their condolences when the news broke on Thursday evening.
