Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday expressed his “deep condolences” at the demise of soccer legend Pele, calling him “an excellent son” of Brazil.

“Edson Arantes do Nascimento used to be an excellent son of the Brazilian other folks,” Putin mentioned in a telegram to Brazil’s outgoing chief, Jair Bolsonaro, the Kremlin mentioned.

“Because of his ability, distinctive ability, and a fantastic and interesting sport, soccer has turn out to be a favorite game for hundreds of thousands of other folks around the globe, together with Russia,” Putin mentioned.

“I used to be fortunate to in my opinion discuss with this excellent particular person, and I can without end stay the brightest reminiscences of him,” Putin added.

Pele, the three-time International Cup winner extensively considered the best participant of all time, died on Thursday in Sao Paulo after a protracted combat with most cancers. He used to be 82.