Pele: Brazil legend stable in hospital with respiratory infection
- Published
Pele won the World Cup with Brazil in 1958, 1962 and 1970
Brazil legend Pele has been diagnosed with a respiratory infection but is stable in hospital in Sao Paulo.
Concerns were raised on Wednesday when ESPN Brasil reported, external Pele had been admitted to the Hospital Albert Einstein with "general swelling".
Pele, 82, thanked well-wishers for sending "good vibes" and confirmed it was a routine monthly visit.
A hospital statement said Pele was being treated with antibiotics and "the response has been adequate".
It added: "The patient, who remains in a common room, is stable, with general improvement in health status."
Pele will stay in hospital for the next few days.
The three-time World Cup winner had a tumour removed from his colon in September 2021 and has since had regular treatment.
"Friends, I am at the hospital making my monthly visit," he wrote on Instagram with an image of a tribute to him at the Qatar World Cup.
"It's always nice to receive positive messages like this. Thanks to Qatar for this tribute, and to everyone who sends me good vibes!"
ESPN Brasil also reported Pele was having cardiac issues and there were concerns that his chemotherapy treatment is not having the expected effect.
His daughter, Kely Nascimento, was moved to clarify on Instagram, saying: "There is no emergency or new dire prediction. He is in the hospital regulating medication."
Pele is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 77 goals in 92 games, and the former striker is one of only four players to have scored in four World Cup tournaments.
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