Players and staff across the Premier League will pay their respects to the legendary Pele in the coming days.
Gameweek 18 of the season, which spans from Friday, December 30 to Sunday, January 1, will see all fixtures hold a pre-match minute's applause for Pele, the Brazilian football great who died on Thursday (December 29) at the age of 82.
Players, staff and officials will also wear black armbands in a mark of respect for the three-time World Cup winner, who passed away in Brazil after a string of health complications, which culminated in a cancer diagnosis in September 2021.
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On Friday morning, a statement from the Premier League expressed its 'deep sadness' at Pele's passing.
"The Premier League is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pele at the age of 82," read the statement. "To many the greatest to ever play the game, his was an extraordinary, record-breaking talent who inspired millions around the world.
"The only player to win the FIFA World Cup three times, Pele scored for Brazil in the 1958 and 1970 finals. Our thoughts and condolences go to Pele's family, friends and his fans around the globe. He will be deeply missed.
"In tribute to Pele, Premier League clubs will remember his contribution to football at matches taking place from Friday 30 December-Sunday 1 January (Matchweek 18) by holding a minute’s applause prior to kick-offs. Players and match officials will wear black armbands."
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.
Speaking in his press conference on Friday morning, Blues boss Frank Lampard paid homage to not only Pele the footballer, but also the person.
"My only memories are probably video footage as a young boy. Maradona was my hero but it was always a matter of fact almost that Maradona and Pele were the two greatest," said Lampard. "So I watched videos. I have huge respect for him as a player.
"As a person, as I think all the responses have shown, he was a great man as well as a great player. Incredible icon and one of the greatest. A sad day for football, no doubt.
Regarded by many as the finest player the game has ever seen, the passing of Pele has led to heartfelt tributes from all corners of the globe. Both Everton and Liverpool took to social media after his death was announced.
The Reds' social media account posted a black and white photo of the forward with the Jules Rimet Trophy, captioned: "A legend, icon and true great of the game who will forever be remembered. Rest in peace, Pele." The Blues also directed their own touching tribute as they accompanied a photo of Pele playing at Goodison Park during the 1966 World Cup finals while describing the Brazilian as a "true great".
