"Pele's legacy will transcend generations" says Brazil legend Ronaldo

Pele had been moved to palliative care earlier in December when his body had stopped responding to initial cancer treatment. President Jair Bolsonaro has declared three days of national mourning in Brazil.

Football legend Pele scored a world record 1,281 goals in 1,363 appearances during a 21-year career. He also scored 77 goals in 92 matches for his country.

Ronaldo, who won the World Cup in 1994 and 2002, said Pele is the only king of football.

"Unique. Cool. Technical. Creative. Perfect. One of a kind. Where Pele arrived, he stayed. Without ever leaving the top, he leaves us today,"

Ronaldo wrote on Instagram.

"The king of football – only one, the greatest of all time. The world is mourning. The sadness of parting mixed with the immense pride of the written history.

"What a privilege to come after you my friend, your talent is a school every player should go through. Your legacy will transcend generations. And that's how it will stay alive.

"Today and always, we celebrate you. Thank you, Pele. Rest in peace.”

Brazil's legendary defender Cafu also paid tribute to the three-time World Cup winner.

“Pelé will never die... Pelé is eternal, Pelé is the king, Pelé is unique... he will be immortalised in every magnificent goal, in every moment of genius, but mainly in each one of us who were inspired by him and his generation. Rest in peace my brother.”

Kaka also shared his tribute to Pele on Instagram, where he wrote,

 "A great part of the history of this sport that I love so much was written by you. Thank you for taking Brazil’s name to the four corners of the world. You fascinated, moved, and touched our hearts, where you will forever be,"

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