Brazilian legend Pele

"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."

Six-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi

"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."

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

"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."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola

"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."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino

"What Diego has done for football, for making all of us fall in love with this beautiful game, is unique. It is, as he is, simply immense."

Real Madrid coach and former France star Zinedine Zidane

"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."

Twenty-time Grand Slam tennis champion Rafael Nadal

"Today the world of sports and football in particular has a hole. One of the greatest athletes in history left us."

AFP