In pictures: Footballing legend Pele through the years

The Brazilian superstar has been a hero for generations

Published: February 11, 2020 15:23 Matthew Smith, Sport Editor

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The man born Edson Arantes do Nascimento is known throughout the world as Pele, arguably the greatest footballer of all time Image Credit: AP

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Pele is regarded as a football legend worldwide after playing a crucial role in Brazil's domination in the sport from 1958-1970. During this phase, Brazil went on to lift the Fifa World Cup trophy tree times Image Credit: AFP

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He broke records when he played in the 1958 World Cup at the age of 17 Image Credit: AP

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He became the youngest player to play - and score - in a World Cup final in 1958, and went on to become the only player to win three World Cups in 1970 Image Credit: AP

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The triumph in the Estadio Azteca, Mexico, in 1970 is regarded as Pele's crowning achievement, winning the World Cup for the third time, 12 years after his first success Image Credit: AP

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Pele went on to have a successful club career with New York Cosmos in the United States Image Credit: AP

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But his first love is Santos, the Brazilian club where he first made his name, and returned to celebrate their 2011 Copa Libertadores triumph Image Credit: AP

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In 2010, he was named the Honorary President of the New York Cosmos, where he scored 31 goals in 56 matches Image Credit: AP

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Following his retirement he was never far away from the spotlight, rubbing shoulders with the next generation of stars such as David Beckham Image Credit: AP

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Pele has been an inspiration to footballers all over the world, including current Brazil superstar Neymar Image Credit: USA Today

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His charitable work off the field has also been widely admired, and he has raised awareness on poverty and inequality alongside political leaders such as Nelson Mandela Image Credit: AP

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Despite his advanced years and reported declining health, he continues to be a global icon and hero for fans of football the world over Image Credit: AP

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In pictures: Footballing legend Pele through the years

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In pictures: Footballing legend Pele through the years

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