(CNN) — Former Brazil star Pele said his recent hospitalization was just a “routine visit.”
And Brazilian press reports stated that Pele was transferred to the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo, last Wednesday, due to “general swelling”, in addition to heart problems, with chemotherapy not achieving the desired effect, according to the “Euro Sport” website.
Tite, the coach of the “Samba” team, was among those who supported the former Brazilian star, as he said in a press conference for the Brazil-Cameroon match, at the end of the group stage competitions in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar: “We all wish Pele good health.”
On Thursday, Pele was keen to reassure his fans and express his thanks to the State of Qatar, following placing his picture on one of the illuminated towers, following his admission to the hospital.
The former Brazilian star said through his Instagram account: “My friends, I am in the hospital, making my monthly visit. It is always good to receive such positive messages, and thank you to Qatar for this honor and everyone who sent me good feelings.”
The 82-year-old Pele is considered one of the greatest players in the history of football. He scored 77 goals in 92 international matches for his country, and won the World Cup 3 times.