Tributes have poured in after the passing of Diego Armando Maradona from both a number of AC Milan legends and from the current squad.
Maradona, regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has died aged 60. The Argentine had brain surgery earlier this month, and is of course best remembered for leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986 when as captain he displayed a remarkable tournament.
He was a star of Serie A with Napoli, leading the Partenopei to their first Serie A title in 1987 and becoming a thorn in the side of Milan for years. A second followed in 1990, alongside an Italian Cup in 1987 and a UEFA Cup in 1991.
Below, some past and present Milan players have paid their tributes to Maradona on social media…
Rest in peace, Diego. Football will forever thank you.
Addio Diego, eterno campione. Grazie, da tutti noi amanti del calcio. pic.twitter.com/rw34krJ0ZV
— AC Milan (@acmilan) November 25, 2020
Mi piange il cuore, è stato un onore affrontarti, avevi un cuore grande, continuerai a fare magie e a regalare gioia ed emozione per sempre #Maradona Ciao Diego RIP pic.twitter.com/U61pv6QRih
— Franco Baresi (@FBaresi) November 25, 2020
Baresi: “My heart is crying, it was an honour to face you, you had a big heart, you will continue to do magic and give joy and emotion forever. Bye Diego, RIP.”
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Galli: “News that fills the house with sadness, rest in peace Diego, an honour to have played against you. Unique!”
Sacchi (via MilanNews): “I can hardly believe it, I knew he had been discharged. A phenomenon is leaving, a good person, generous, who loved football. An extraordinary protagonist, the greatest ever.
“I have three signatures with a dedication on a ball – they are those of Pele, Di Stefano and Maradona. Diego made millions of people dream, his plays were feats for others. Playing against him was difficult. He was a player who evolved football. He was never an individualist, if I could I would have gladly coached him.”
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Maldini: “Goodbye great Diego, you will always be a hero to me. Rest in peace my friend.”
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Inzaghi: “You will remain immortal for all those who love football. Thanks for everything Diego, Rest in Peace.”
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Donnarumma: “Farewell to the greatest ever.”
We will always remember you! Your passion for this sport is as legendary as you are 🖤 Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/JfESdJGB3K
— Diogo Dalot (@DalotDiogo) November 25, 2020
— Brahim (@Brahim) November 25, 2020
Cafu: “What sad news! Still not believing that our eternal @maradona is gone! May he rest in peace 🌟🙏🏾! Your legacy will always be remembered among us! Your memory will live forever in our hearts! My thoughts to all family members, I wish you to find peace and relief from this great pain. Rest in peace my eternal and great friend @maradona.”
Kaka: “Thank you for everything you’ve done for this sport that I love so much ⚽️ Genius! Rest in peace.”