In the following days, Premier League players and personnel will show their homage for the late Pele.
All games during Gameweek 18, which runs from Friday, December 30 to Sunday, January 1, will be preceded by a minute of applause in memory of Pele, the legendary Brazilian footballer who passed away on Thursday, December 29 at the age of 82.
In remembrance of the three-time World Cup champion, who passed away in Brazil after suffering from a series of health issues that culminated in a cancer diagnosis in September 2021, players, staff, and officials will also don black armbands.
On Friday morning, a statement from the Premier League expressed its ‘deep sadness’ at Pele’s passing.
The statement said, “The Premier League is very saddened to learn of Pele’s demise at the age of 82. “His was an incredible, record-breaking talent that inspired millions around the world, making him widely regarded as the best player to ever play the game.
“Pele scored for Brazil in the 1958 and 1970 championship games. Pele is the only player to have won the FIFA World Cup three times. Our hearts go out to Pele’s family, friends, and all of his admirers throughout the world. He is greatly missed.
“Premier League teams will hold a minute of applause before kickoffs during games played from Friday, December 30, to Sunday, January 1 (Matchweek 18) to honor Pele and his contributions to football. Black armbands will be worn by participants and match officials.”
Tributes will begin on Merseyside on Friday night when Liverpool host Leicester City at Anfield in their final match of 2022. Everton will then pay their respects at the Etihad on Saturday afternoon when they visit Manchester City.
“My only memories are probably from the videos I made when I was a boy. Maradona was my favorite player, but it was almost always agreed upon that he and Pele were the two greatest “Lampard stated. “I then saw videos. I have a lot of admiration for him as a player.
“My only memories are probably from the videos I made when I was a boy. Maradona was my favorite player, but it was almost always agreed upon that he and Pele were the two greatest “Lampard stated. “I then saw videos. I have a lot of admiration for him as a player.
A picture of the forward with the Jules Rimet Trophy was uploaded to the Reds’ social media page with the following caption: “A true great of the game who will live on in legend and icon form. Pele, rest in peace.” The Blues also produced their own heartfelt tribute, calling Pele a “genuine great” and including a picture of the Brazilian playing at Goodison Park during the 1966 World Cup finals.