Brazilian football icon, Ronaldinho has paid his tribute to departed football icon, Diego Maradona who died on Wednesday at the age of 60.
The former Barcelona forward had some moment with the living legend who has been receiving tributes from all and sundry in the world of football.
As a national hero, three days of mourning was declared after he died of cardiac arrest. His body has been displayed at Casa Rosada, where millions of fans have been pouring in to give him their last respect defying the COVID-19 protocol to see their national hero for the last time.
The Brazilian, who led the Selecao to 2002 the world cup in South Korea and Japan took to his social media page to laud the 1986 world cup winner.
“My feelings to the family and to everyone who loves this genius. My friend, my idol, my number 10, thank you for every moment in your company, whether at games or at a simple dinner.
“Our conversations have always been very special and I will cherish all moments of joy on the field together, where I was there to admire you and pay tribute to your greatness.”
Ronaldinho further stated that Maradona inspired him during his playing days, describing him as his idol.
“It inspired me during my career and when I met you and played that 5 football, it was one of the best nights of my life. I was with my idols in the field.
“Rest in Peace, my idol, I love you …”
The wizard of wizards !!!
“Eternal.”
Tributes continue to flow in for Maradona in the city of Naples
Meanwhile, there are more tributes emerging from the city of Naples where Maradona’s name can never be forgotten.
The fans had decided to pay their huge respect outside the San Paolo Stadium that will be renamed after him, chanting his name while the UEFA Europa League game between the Pertonopei and Rijeka was going on. Napoli eventually won the game 2-0.
Below are some of the comments made by some Napoli players after the game alongside pictures and videos from the scene as Neapolitans honour their hero.
Along with Diego, we lose a part of all of us who are in love with football and with Napoli. This moment can only bring us together.”
Not only during the minute’s silence but throughout the match, Maradona’s images will light up the Stadio San Paolo, soon to be named in his honour.
Seeing the images of him inside the stadium can help give us strength. Naturally, there is great sadness in the locker room, but the players want to go out there and show Diego – who is watching – what we can do.
Napoli director Cristiano Giuntoli
It was a very sad day and a difficult game to get focused on, which was really not easy after everything that happened
This is a tough moment, but all us players want to bring home a trophy this season so we can dedicate it to Diego.
Matteo Politano
It was an awful moment for me, so I can only imagine how those who lived through his time at Napoli must have felt.
He made such a big impact on this city and for everyone in the south of Italy. I want to be positive, and focus on my memories of a smiling man who loved football.
Dries Mertens
— footballitalia (@footballitalia) November 26, 2020
Incredible scenes in Naples this evening as the city honours Diego Maradona 💙 pic.twitter.com/6YOZ7RKFcD
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) November 26, 2020
Napoli players stepped onto the San Paolo pitch wearing Diego Maradona's No. 10 🙏🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/hntgI7tC6Y
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) November 26, 2020
Rest on Diego Amando Maradona.
