The legendary forward, who represented Argentina, Colombia and Spain during his stellar career, had been in a critical condition after suffering a heart attack

Real Madrid icon Alfredo Di Stefano has passed away at the age of 88.

The club's honorary president was in a critical condition after suffering a heart attack in the street close to the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, just a day after his 88th birthday, and passed away after his health worsened dramatically on Monday morning.

Di Stefano started his career at River Plate and moved to Madrid from Colombian side Millonarios in 1953, having originally been close to joining Barcelona.

The Argentine forward defined an era at the Bernabeu, leading Madrid to eight Liga titles and five European Cups between 1953 and 1964.

The 'Saeta Rubia' (Blond Arrow) netted 308 times in 396 appearances for Real and remains second on the club's list of all-time top goalscorers behind Raul (323).

Booked

Cristiano Ronaldo says: It’s a very sad day. For me, for all the madridistas, for the world of football. Don Alfredo leaves us, but not his spirit. His memory will last forever in our hearts, because legends never die. Thanks for everything and rest in peace Maestro. #EternoAlfredo
https://www.facebook.com/Cristiano?fref=nf

ARGENTINA HAS MESSI, MARADONA, AND DI STEFANO. MAY HIS SOUK REST. IN THE BOSOM OF JESUS CHRIST

cheguevera: ARGENTINA HAS MESSI, MARADONA, AND DI STEFANO. MAY HIS SOUK REST. IN THE BOSOM OF JESUS CHRIST

These were the words of Diego Maradona interviewed by ex-England striker Gary Lineker on his World Cup chat show.

Sad! RIP

"People talk about the best being Pele or Diego Maradona, but for me the best player ever was Alfredo Di Stefano." - Pelé