Brazilian football legend Pele’s health continues to improve, but he has almost no release date from the hospital he was admitted two weeks ago, doctors said on Monday.
Considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time, the 82-year-old Pele was hospitalized in Sao Paulo on November 29, undergoing what his medical team called an operation to remove a colon tumor.
Doctors also diagnosed him with a respiratory infection.
“His discharge date has not been set, but [however] the patient’s clinical condition continues to improve, particularly his respiratory infection,” the hospital said in a statement.
“He remains in a standard room, is conscious and has stable vital signs.”
Pelé’s daughters, Kelly Nascimento and Flavia Arantes, have denied reports that Pelé received end-of-life care and are trying to reassure fans about Pele’s health. Nascimento, who lives in the United States, posted two photos from the hospital on Instagram on Monday, including a hand holding his father’s hand.
“We arrived.”
Pele – whose real name is Edson Arantesdo his Nascimento – scored over 1,000 goals in one of the sport’s most illustrious careers. He is the only player in history to have won three World Cups in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
The King has been in poor health for several years, and his public appearances have become less frequent. However, he remains active on social media.
During the World Cup, he regularly posted online, including a message of support for current Brazilian star Neymar. After losing to Croatia in the final. “Keep inspiring us.