Brazilian soccer legend Pelé treated for respiratory infection but in stable condition in hospital

CNN
—

Brazilian soccer legend Pelé is being treated for a “respiratory infection,” according to a statement from the Albert Einstein Jewish Hospital in São Paulo on Friday.

The 82-year-old is in « stable condition » and is responding well to antibiotic treatment, but will remain in hospital for further treatment in the coming days, the statement added.

Pele was admitted to hospital for a « reassessment of chemotherapy treatment for colon cancer identified in September 2021, » the hospital said in an earlier statement Wednesday.

When news broke that the three-time World Cup winner was in hospital, his daughter Kely Nascimento took to Instagram to reassure the public.

“There is no rush or dire new prediction. I will be there for New Years and promise to post some pictures,” she said.

« Truly and sincerely, we appreciate the concern and the love!! »

On Thursday, Pele also took to the social media platform to confirm the reasons for his hospitalization: « My friends, I am in the hospital for my monthly visit, » the post read.

Brazilian fans attending the country’s final group stage game at the World Cup – a surprising 1-0 loss to Cameroon – unveiled two huge banners in tribute to the country’s greatest player.

In his Instagram post, Pelé showed his gratitude to well-wishers, sharing an image of buildings in Qatar that had been lit up to say « Get Well Soon ».

“It’s always nice to receive positive messages like this. Thank you to Qatar for this tribute, and to all those who send me good vibes! » he said in his message.

Pelé is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history. He played in four World Cups, winning three (1958, 1962, 1970) and scoring 12 goals in 14 games. He scored 1,281 goals during his professional career in 1,363 games.