Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos has revealed that he lost 99% of the earnings he made throughout his career. The former Real Madrid left-back, estimated to have earned around €160 million (£137.6m) during his playing days, spoke about the 'mistakes' that led to his financial losses.
Warning to young players
Speaking at the Portugal Football Summit, Carlos said: "I had problems with people who emptied my bank account. I lost 99% of everything I earned from football."
He added: "I had a very serious family problem. On Thursday, I went to bed at midnight and on Friday, I received a pile of documents I knew nothing about. That's when I realised I had lost my entire history.
"I made mistakes, and therefore, I ask younger players not to do the same. I always thought about future plans after my playing career.
"It's about building a history as a player and leveraging your image. When I decided to leave football, I already had my sporting director's licence and was working with many brands."
Career achievements and later life
Carlos helped Brazil win the World Cup in 2002 and lifted the Champions League trophy three times with Real Madrid. He played 817 games for seven different clubs throughout a career spanning more than 20 years.
He initially retired in 2012 but made a comeback in 2015, signing for Indian side Delhi Dynamos. He made just three appearances in the Indian Super League before announcing his retirement in 2016.
Carlos now works as a club representative for Real Madrid and owns Brazilian third-tier side AA Internacional de Limeira. He was in America for the summer's World Cup.
Health clarification
The 53-year-old underwent planned surgery last year and moved to clarify that he did not suffer a heart attack. In an Instagram post, he wrote: "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."
