In the realm of global football, a profound sorrow blankets the hearts as it mourns the departure of one of its towering figures. On the 29th of December, the world bid farewell to Pele, the illustrious three-time world champion from Brazil, who breathed his last at the age of 82. As a tribute to his legacy, a solemn minute of silence shall echo across the stadiums of the 3rd league during matchday 18, spanning from the 13th to the 16th of January. Furthermore, the German Football League urges Bundesliga clubs to observe a minute’s silence for Pele on matchday 16.
Bernd Neuendorf, the President of the German Football Association (DFB), along with DFB General Secretary Heike Ullrich and national coach Hansi Flick, conveyed their heartfelt condolences following the demise of Pele, extolling the virtues of the legendary footballer.
President Bernd Neuendorf expressed profound sorrow, remarking, “The passing of Pele has plunged the German Football Association into profound sorrow. The world of football has lost one of its towering figures. Pele’s significance transcended the boundaries of the pitch. He stood as an emblem for successive generations. A thrice World Cup victor, Pele captivated audiences worldwide, captivating even those indifferent to the sport. With his finesse, elegance, alacrity, and technique, Pele rendered football a spectacle of effortless brilliance. He etched an indelible mark upon the annals of the sport, perpetually remaining an ambassador for his homeland and the beautiful game. His name has become synonymous with the splendor and enchantment of football, embodying all that renders this sport so captivating and exhilarating.”
DFB General Secretary Heike Ullrich lamented Pele’s demise, stating, “The passing of Pele evokes profound sadness within me. He exuded a distinctive aura that resonated even with those who never witnessed him grace the field. His innate warmth was palpable. Perfection in football may be an elusive notion, yet when contemplating its embodiment, Pele immediately springs to mind. His passion for the game was evident to all, shaping its course like few others have done before or since. It is no coincidence that FIFA, alongside Diego Maradona, hailed him as the ‘Footballer of the 20th century’ – now, both luminaries have departed. The global football community is bereft.”
National coach Hansi Flick eulogized Pele, asserting, “Pele was unparalleled, the epitome of footballing greatness. His game was a symphony of perfection, devoid of any shortcomings. Whether with his right foot, his head, or his left, Pele orchestrated goals with finesse, power, individual brilliance, or sheer simplicity. He wasn’t merely a prolific goal-scorer; his vision for his teammates was equally remarkable. His assists and passes were as sublime as his goals. Pele leaves behind a chasm that can never be filled.”