Former Chelsea star Oscar is recovering in a Brazilian hospital after a frightening collapse at his club's training ground, which was triggered by a cardiac issue.
Training Ground Collapse
The 34-year-old Brazilian midfielder lost consciousness for approximately two minutes while conducting an interval test on an exercise bike at Sao Paulo's training facility earlier this week. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, prompting immediate medical attention from club professionals and the medical team from Einstein Hospital Israelita.
Oscar was swiftly admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) where he remained under close observation. This health scare comes just months after the player suffered a fractured vertebra in August, which had already limited his playing time this season.
Medical Diagnosis Revealed
After extensive medical investigation, doctors have confirmed a diagnosis of vasovagal syncope, a condition that causes a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure. This reduction in blood flow to the brain can lead to temporary loss of consciousness.
In their official statement, Sao Paulo confirmed Oscar "presented an incident with cardiological changes" during tests at their SuperCT facility. The club noted that the midfielder had previously been monitoring a heart issue after showing signs of abnormality during tests related to his vertebral fracture.
Current Condition and Treatment
According to the latest medical update, Oscar remains clinically well and stable while hospitalised in a cardiology unit. He is scheduled to undergo an electrophysiological study this Friday as part of his ongoing treatment.
Vasovagal syncope, while serious, is typically not life-threatening and can be managed with proper medical care. The condition often occurs when the body overreacts to triggers such as extreme heat, hunger, dehydration, or emotional distress.
His former club, Chelsea FC, has publicly expressed support, stating: "The thoughts of everyone at Chelsea FC are with our former player Oscar and his family at this difficult time."
The attacking midfielder, who won two Premier League titles with Chelsea between 2012 and 2017, returned to his boyhood club Sao Paulo in December on a three-year deal after a successful spell in the Chinese Super League with Shanghai Port.
