Doctors said on Wednesday that Pele’s health had worsened during his stay in hospital for cancer treatment.
The Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo said in a statement on Wednesday that Pele’s cancer had advanced and the 82-year-old Brazilian soccer star was under “tertiary care” related to “kidney and heart abnormalities.”
The hospital reported no signs of the three-time World Cup winner’s respiratory infection, which was exacerbated by COVID-19.
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known worldwide as Pele, underwent chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer after removing a colon polyp in September 2021. Neither his family nor the hospital has said whether the cancer has spread to other organs.
Kelly Nascimento, one of his daughters, said Pele will remain in hospital through Christmas.
“We decided with the doctors that, for many reasons, it would be best for us to stay here, with all the care that this new Einstein family is giving us,” she wrote on Instagram. We’ll even make some caipirinhas (no kidding). We love you and will be giving you an update next week.”
Pele led Brazil to World Cup wins in 1958, 1962 and 1970 and remains one of the team’s all-time top scorers with 77 goals.
Neymar tied Pele’s record during the last World Cup. Many greetings and wishes were extended to the former soccer player during the Qatar tournament, which was won by Argentina on Sunday.
