Tributes have been rolling in from legendary figures of both Inter and Barcelona following the news that Luis Suarez has died, aged 88.
After joining the Nerazzurri from Barca for a world record fee in 1961, Suarez went on to make 328 appearances for Inter, scoring 55 goals in the process and was part of the squads that won three Serie A titles and two consecutive European Cups under Helenio Herrera.
On Sunday morning, Inter posted on twitter: “The perfect player who, through his talent, inspired generations. Ciao, Luisito.”
In and amongst the replies to Inter’s tweet, Juventus responded with a message of their own, which read: “You have been a great opponent. Rest in peace, Luisito.”
Compatriot and fellow legendary Inter figure Javier Zannetti also paid his respects to Suarez on social media on Sunday, writing on Instagram: “You were greatness, elegance and class. A gentleman, a legend, a symbol of our beloved Inter. Always and forever, a smile that is impossible to forget. Thank you for everything, Luisito.”
Esteban Cambiasso was also among the former Inter Hall of Fame players to have written a message on Instagram in memory of Suarez.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta also penned a message on twitter, which read: “Luis Suárez leaves us, an excellent footballer who will forever be remembered by all Barcelona fans. My condolences to all his family. Rest in peace.”
A number of Serie A clubs also joined in with the tributes, including Inter’s rivals Milan, Juventus, Cagliari and Sampdoria, where Suarez finished his playing career in 1973.