Brazilian Royal AM defender Ricardo Nascimento says it is difficult to come to terms that Pele, who was widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, is no more.
It is painfully hurting to Nascimento to this day because, just like Pele, he is a graduate of Brazilian giants Santos.
Pele, to date the only player to lift three World Cups, died late last month due to colon cancer and was laid to rest last week.
He missed the 2022 FIFA World Cup finals as his body deteriorated in recent years and spent more time in hospital, resulting in him not being able to honour many invitations and events as the global superstar.
“Because I played at Santos and Santos is my team because I support, it hurts,” said Nascimento of the Pele.
“When we were small boys, Pele used to come and talk to us [at Santos]. As much as it is difficult, he said we should continue to play football.
“My father also supports Santos, so we were hurt and for me he was the greatest player of all time.”
Pelé played 18 years for Santos and scored a staggering 1,283 goals in 1,367 matches for both his club and country, according to Brazilian records.
He led Santos to 10 state titles, six national titles and two continental trophies.
Because of his influence in football, FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested that each member association should name one stadium after him to acknowledge his success.
“Knowing Brazil he was very important,” added Nascimento.
“In Brazil, he’s number one and in Argentina, it is (between) Lionel Messi and (late) Diego Maradona. Pele was for life, for football.
“It is difficult in Brazil because Pele is no more.”
