In pictures: Footballing legend Pele through the years

The Brazilian superstar has been a hero for generations

Last updated: February 11, 2020 | 17:04

2 MIN READ

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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

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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

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He broke records when he played in the 1958 World Cup at the age of 17

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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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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Pele has been an inspiration to footballers all over the world, including current Brazil superstar Neymar

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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

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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

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