In pictures: Footballing legend Pele through the years

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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