The eighty-two-year-old former striker has been undergoing cancer treatment since last September, when doctors discovered a tumor in his colon during a routine check-up. After his appointment, one of the best footballers in history underwent several chemotherapy treatments and was repeatedly hospitalized. During the examination, doctors also found tumors in his liver and lungs, and he also had urinary tract inflammation.

According to British newspaper the Daily Mail, chemotherapy no longer worked in Pelé’s case. He was also diagnosed with a mental disorder upon admission to the hospital after becoming agitated.

Photos as proof

The former Brazil international has, among other things, difficulty eating. Doctors believe that hepatic encephalopathy is to blame. This is a disorder of the nervous system due to severe liver disease.

It’s unclear how long Pelé will have to stay in hospital, but he has his wife Marcia by his side and a nurse. His daughter Kelly, who lives outside Brazil, said on Instagram that her father was out of danger. “Today, the media is sounding the alarm about my father’s health. I can assure you that my father is out of danger. I will be with him in the New Year, and I promise to send a photo.” said Pele’s daughter.

Representatives for Pelé’s hospital did not comment on his health condition. His wife indicated that the South American icon was in hospital undergoing chemotherapy and standard work-ups. Pelé scored 655 goals in 700 games during his wealthy career. He played for the national team on ninety-two occasions and scored 77 accurate hits. In addition, he won the World Championship three times.