Jose Mourinho thanks Pele for giving him one of his 'proudest moments' in special tribute
Jose Mourinho has thanked Pele for giving him one of his 'proudest moments' in a special tribute to the Brazil icon.
Pele sadly passed away at 82 following a long battle with colon cancer, with his death confirmed on Thursday by his family.
The sporting world have paid their respects to the three-time World Cup winner, with Neymar paying a touching tribute on social media.
Mourinho has also paid tribute to Pele, thanking him for one of his 'proudest moments' of his career.
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The AS Roma manager met the Santos legend at an awards ceremony in Manchester back in 2005.
Pele was present for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year, where he received a lifetime achievement award.
Mourinho, who was the manager of Chelsea at the time, had the privilege of presenting the prize to Pele.
And he's referenced that meeting in his tribute to the football legend.
On Instagram, he wrote: "In 2005 I received the BBC award directly from the king’s hands, and to this day it’s one of my proudest moments. I was so so happy to have him in Manchester where we had such a nice chat and nice time
"Rest in peace King Pelé and thinking of his loved ones.
"I am very sad."
Mourinho's fellow countryman Cristiano Ronaldo has shared his condolences, too, posting a touching tribute online.
On Instagram, the 37-year-old wrote: "My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento.
"A mere 'goodbye' to the eternal King Pelé will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing. An inspiration to so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever.
"The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance. He will never be forgotten and his memory will live forever in each and every one of us football lovers.
"Rest in peace King Pelé."
Topics: Pele, Jose Mourinho, Football
Nasir Jabbar