RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Pelé, considered by the soccer world as one of the best soccer players in history, was hospitalized again in São Paulo to continue his treatment for a colon tumor. This was announced in a statement by the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, the same medical center where ‘O Rei’ (The king) spent the whole month of September.
“The patient is stable and is expected to be discharged in the next few days,” the hospital said in a statement in which it did not provide further details about the chemotherapy treatment that the former Santos player is undergoing to treat his illness.
On September 4, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, 81, underwent surgery to treat the tumor that was found during routine examinations. After spending a little more than a week in intensive care, the three-time world champion with the Brazilian national team returned to the medical facility due to respiratory difficulties.
Pelé’s health problems have worsened in recent years due to spine, hip, and knee problems that have reduced his mobility and forced him to undergo surgery, in addition to suffering some renal crises.
During the last hospitalization, one of the soccer legend’s daughters, Kely Nascimento, used her social networks to improve ‘O Rei’s’ health condition and the physiotherapy exercises her father performed at the São Paulo hospital.
“I am out of the intensive care unit, and I am in my room. I continue to be happier every day, with a predisposition to play 90 minutes plus extra time. We will be together soon,” the Brazilian had written on his social networks.
A few days ago, on the occasion of the seventh Ballon d’Or won by Lionel Messi, Pelé congratulated the rosarino star for his new award.
“Congratulations, @leomessi, for another Ballon d’Or. It’s certainly a fitting tribute to an unparalleled talent,” Pele wrote. “Seven times, thank you very much!” added the soccer player who in 2000 was recognized as Player of the 20th Century by FIFA experts.