Manchester United star Antony reveals touching tribute to Brazil legend Pele on his shirt

Manchester United and Brazil star Antony unveiled a tribute to Pele before the lunchtime fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.

The 82-year-old football legend passed away on Thursday after suffering with colon cancer. Following the announcement of his death, the Premier League confirmed that players and match officials would be wearing black armbands today in honour of Pele.

Fans and players also combined before kick off for a minute’s applause to celebrate the former Santos icon’s contributions to football. It was during this that Antony lifted his shirt up to reveal a message in Portuguese to Pele.

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Translated, the message read: “Rest in peace, Pele.” Like many of the Brazil squad, Antony had a close relationship with Pele and even in ill health, the legendary striker took the time to offer words of comfort to United’s winger.

Following Brazil’s elimination from the World Cup at the hands of Croatia, Antony took to Instagram to post an emotional message. He wrote: “This is not how I would like to start this message.

“But, first of all, I need to say how proud I am of everyone who lived this dream with me. It was years, months, weeks, days and more days thinking about bringing this title back home, the country of football.

“And we tried everything… Every drop of sweat shed, every tackle, every vibe, every dribble and goal… We did it. Today, the sadness of an elimination remains, of an interrupted dream.

“However, the certainty that we will come back even stronger, more united and with the same desire to bring joy to everyone who cheers for us. The Antony who leaves Qatar today is the same one who painted the streets of Osasco dreaming of a World Cup title.

“It wasn’t now, but we’ll be back. Hexa continues as our goal.

“Let’s cry today, we have that right, we are human beings, but tomorrow we will start to rebuild our history.” Responding to the post, Pele wrote: “You are part of the future generation.

“Don’t give up and stay strong. The story is just beginning.”

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