In response to concerns about his health, Pele has reassured followers that his trip to the hospital in Brazil is only routine.
After undergoing surgery to remove a tumor in September 2021, the 82-year-old is still receiving therapy for colon cancer and has needed continuous, routine medical care.
Following rumours that Pele, the first global celebrity in football, had been readmitted to the hospital due to deteriorating health, his daughter Kely Nascimento updated his status on social media, saying there was no “new dire forecast.”
A post on Pele’s Instagram account on Thursday night attempted to calm any significant concerns.
The legendary Brazil player wrote: “Friends, I am at the hospital making my monthly visit,” attached to a photo of a ‘get well soon’ message posted on buildings at the World Cup in Qatar.
“It’s always nice to receive positive messages like this. Thanks to Qatar for this tribute, and to everyone who sends me good vibes!”
At the 1958 World Cup, Pele made his debut on the international stage at the age of 17, helping Brazil to their first of a record-breaking five victories.
Injury limited his participation in the finals in 1962 and 1966, but he came back to lead Brazil to a third victory in Mexico in 1970 as a member of what is arguably the greatest international squad in history.
The official count for Pele’s illustrious career, which spanned from 1957 to 1977, is 757 goals in 831 games, however club Santos believe the it is closer to 1,000.
