Andre Villas-Boas Wants FIFA To Retire No.10 Shirt For All Football Teams After Diego Maradona's Death

Andre Villas-Boas says FIFA should retire the No.10 shirt across world football as a tribute to Diego Maradona who sadly passed away on Wednesday.

Maradona tragically died at the age of 60 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his Buenos Aires home.

Teams, players and figures from around the world have paid their respects to the legendary Argentinean.

The iconic No.10, who wore the shirt during his time at Napoli, Barcelona and for his country, won two Serie A titles and the prestigious World Cup, among other trophies, during his glittering professional career.

Image: PA

And speaking after his side's Champions League fixture, Marseille manager Villas-Boas believes the No.10 shirt should be retired from world football in tribute to Maradona.

"Maradona? Yes it is tough news," he said.

"I would like FIFA to retire the number 10 shirt in all competitions, for all teams.

"It would be the best homage we could do for him. He is an incredible loss for the world of football."

Image: PA

Tributes poured in following Maradona's passing with fellow countryman Lionel Messi offering some touching words.

On Instagram, he wrote: "A very sad day for all Argentines and for football. He leaves us but does not leave, because Diego is eternal.

"I keep all the beautiful moments I lived with him and I wanted to take the opportunity to send my condolences to all his family and friends. RIP."

Cristiano Ronaldo also reacted with a heartfelt tribute. The Juventus superstar called Maradona "an unparalleled magician" who leaves "a void that will never be filled."

Translated, his post reads: "Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius. One of the best ever. An unparalleled magician.

"He leaves too soon, but leaves a legacy without limits and a void that will never be filled. Rest in peace, ace. You will never be forgotten."

Brazil legend Pele also spoke glowingly of his fellow World Cup winner.

On Twitter, he wrote: "What sad news. I lost a great friend and the world lost a legend. There is still much to be said, but for now, may God give strength to family members.

"One day, I hope we can play football together in the sky."

RIP.

Topics: Football News, Football, FIFA, Diego Maradona, Andre Villas-Boas

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado, and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Darren Till, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

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