Legendary former Brazil full-back Roberto Carlos has been in hospital, but has clarified he didn’t suffer a heart attack amid rumours he underwent emergency surgery.
Real Madrid and Brazil legend Roberto Carlos has rubbished rumours that he suffered a heart attack. The former left-back underwent surgery recently, with reports in Spain claiming it was an emergency heart procedure.
It was said the 52-year-old was taken in for treatment after a small clot was found in his leg. It was then claimed that an MRI confirmed a problem with his heart – and Carlos then underwent a three-hour procedure to fit a tube and correct the issue.
But the Brazilian has corrected these reports through his Instagram account. Carlos posted a photo of himself in hospital alongside an explanation in English and Brazilian Portuguese.
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He said: “I would like to clarify recent information that has been circling. I recently underwent a preventative medical procedure, planned in advance with my medical team.
“The procedure was successful, and I am well. I did not suffer a heart attack. I am recovering well, and looking forward to returning to full fitness and resuming my professional and personal commitments soon.
“I sincerely thank everyone for messages of support, care, and concern.
“I would like to reassure everyone there is no cause for concern.
My heartfelt thanks go to the entire medical team who took care of me.
Among those to show their support in the comments section of his post were former teammate David Beckham, who posted: “Love you my friend,” and ex-Madrid and Germany star Toni Kroos, who said: “Amigo mio (my friend),” in Spanish.
The former defender had enjoyed a stellar playing career at the top level, having represented Palmeiras and Inter Milan before moving to Madrid.
Carlos became a legendary figure at the club, making 527 appearances and scoring 69 goals for the Spanish giants. He won four league titles, three Champions Leagues and a whole host of other trophies at the Santiago Bernabeu.
He went on to play for Fenerbahce, Corinthians and Anzi Makhachkala. The full-back made 125 appearances for Brazil’s national team across a glittering career, helping the Selecao to the 2002 World Cup.
Carlos also had a brief foray into management, having had spells with Sivasspor, Akhisar Belediyespor and Dehli Dynamos. However, he hasn’t been seen in the dugout since 2015.
He has not stayed too far away from the pitch since then, though. Carlos has featured in a number Soccer Aid matches since hanging up his boots – and even turned out for a Shropshire-based Sunday league team in 2022.
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