The footballing world was saddened to learn of the death of Johan Cruyff earlier today.
Aged 68, the former Ajax, Barcelona and Netherlands legend had been battling lung cancer since last October.
It will come as little surprise that Twitter has been awash with those paying tribute to Cruyff, some of which can be read below:
RIP Johan Cruyff. He will be remembered as a legend who transformed the game in so many ways. pic.twitter.com/dUYSYem0Ec
— Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) March 24, 2016
"Very sad by the news of @JohanCruyff Greatest Dutch player of all time and a great inspirator to me and many others."
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar
"Heaven has a new playmaker... R.I.P. Football Genius Johan #Cruyff."
Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos
A genius is gone, but his legacy will remain forever... RIP Johan Cruyff. pic.twitter.com/byuVxTZ4pj
— Juan Mata García (@juanmata8) March 24, 2016
"RIP @JohanCruyff one of the greatest has just left us. Thank you for everything. My condolences to the family. #14 #JohanCruyff."
Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta.
"Very sad to hear the news of Johan Cruyff, fantastic player and a sad loss to the football world. My condolences to his family."
Former England and Tottenham Hotspur player Glenn Hoddle
Sad to hear that Johan Cruyff has died. Football has lost a man who did more to make the beautiful game beautiful than anyone in history.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) March 24, 2016
"Goodbye to one of the all-time legends of football. Player and coach ahead of his time. RIP Johan Cruyff."
Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos
"So much respect and admiration for what you have achieved in your life for football. RIP Mr Cruyff #legend."
Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud
Rest in peace legend Johan Cruijff🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/cUL3HG6Jsu
— Paul Pogba (@paulpogba) March 24, 2016
"Today we regret the death of the great leader Johan Cruyff. My feelings to the family of this eternal legend."
Former Barcelona star Ronaldinho
"Terrible news that Johan Cryuff has passed away. One of the greatest players ever, a true giant in our game, he will be sadly missed. RIP."
Ex-Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel
The '14' will never be the same. RIP Johan Cruyff. pic.twitter.com/OZxbF4Z0kO
— Xabi Alonso (@XabiAlonso) March 24, 2016
"My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Johan Cruyff. One of the very best. RIP."
Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas
"I am shocked. Johan #Cruyff is dead. He was not only a very good friend but also a brother to me."
Former Germany international Franz Beckenbauer
— Memphis (@Memphis) March 24, 2016
"Today FC Barcelona had lost a piece of their badge, but we have your huge legacy. @JohanCruyff RIP."
Chelsea winger Pedro
"Let's say goodbye to a football legend. A man above colours. Cruyff RIP."
Atletico Madrid centre-forward Fernando Torres
