'Sad to lose friends this way': Pele, others mourn Maradona's death

Reactions poured in on Wednesday to news of the death of Diego Maradona from a heart attack, as the footballing fraternity, sports fraternity and fans from across the world posted tributes to the legendary footballer. 

F.C. Barcelona, Maradona's former club, called him an icon of world football.

"FC Barcelona expresses its deepest condolences regarding the death of Diego Armando Maradona, a player for our club (1982-84) and an icon of world football. Rest in peace Diego," the club tweeted.

Pele said, “[It’s sad] to lose friends this way...Certainly one day we’ll kick a ball together in the sky above.”

Argentinian President Alberto Fernández posted an emotive tribute, saying, "You took us to the top of the world. You made us immensely happy. You were the greatest of all. Thanks for having existed, Diego. We will miss you for life." 

Former Argentine player Javier Mascherano said, "Eternal thanks Diego for everything you have given us. Rest in peace. You won it all."

Cristiano Ronaldo tweeted saying, "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."

Former Indian cricket team captain Saurav Ganguly also tweeted. 

All India Football Federation President Praful Patel called Maradona an invaluable gem.

"Argentinian football legend Diego Maradona was like a magician with the ball at his feet. Football has lost an invaluable gem today. His glorious legacy will forever have a place in football history. Rest in peace," he tweeted.

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar added, "Football and the world of sports has lost one of its greatest players today. Rest in Peace Diego Maradona! You shall be missed."

Stylish batsman of yesteryears, V.V.S. Laxman also expressed his condolences on the micro-blogging site.

"One of the greatest icons of the game Diego Maradona passes away, a very sad day for World sports. Condolences to his family, friends and well-wishers," Laxman tweeted.

Dashing former India batsman Virender Sehwag joined his former teammates in expressing his sadness.

Former hockey captain Viren Rasquinha also posted an emotional tribute.

"Thank you for all the memories & madness," he tweeted, adding "...that genius left foot that was truly blessed by all the Gods above.

Many shared pictures of their interactions with Maradona, whose career as well as post-football life took him across the world.

Indian football legend I.M. Vijayan shared his photo taken with Maradona. 

With inputs from PTI