Brazilian football icon Roberto Carlos has moved swiftly to quash widespread rumours regarding his health, confirming he did not suffer a heart attack despite recent surgery.
Clarification from the legend himself
The former Real Madrid and Brazil left-back, now 52, took to his official Instagram account to set the record straight. He posted a photograph from his hospital bed alongside a detailed message written in both English and Brazilian Portuguese.
Carlos stated clearly: "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." He emphasised that the operation was successful and that he is recovering well, looking forward to resuming his professional and personal commitments.
He directly addressed the core of the speculation, asserting: "I did not suffer a heart attack." The football great extended his heartfelt thanks to his medical team and to the multitude of fans and former colleagues who sent messages of support.
Support from former teammates
The comments section of his social media post quickly filled with well-wishes from fellow legends of the game. Former Real Madrid teammate and England star David Beckham wrote simply, "Love you my friend." German midfield maestro Toni Kroos, another ex-Madrid colleague, posted a supportive message in Spanish: "Amigo mio."
Initial reports from Spain had suggested Carlos required emergency heart surgery after a small clot was discovered in his leg. It was further claimed that an MRI scan subsequently identified a cardiac issue, leading to a three-hour procedure to fit a tube and correct the problem. Carlos's statement has now directly countered these claims, labelling his treatment as a pre-planned, preventative measure.
A glittering career on the pitch
Roberto Carlos is revered as one of the greatest defenders in football history. His club career included celebrated spells with Palmeiras, Inter Milan, and most famously Real Madrid, where he became a legend.
During his tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu, he made a staggering 527 appearances, scoring 69 goals. His trophy haul with Los Blancos was immense, including four La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League crowns. He later played for Fenerbahçe, Corinthians, and Anzhi Makhachkala.
On the international stage, he earned 125 caps for Brazil and was a pivotal member of the squad that triumphed at the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan. Following his retirement, he ventured into management with spells at Sivasspor, Akhisar Belediyespor, and Delhi Dynamos, though he has not managed since 2015.
He has remained in the public eye through charity matches like Soccer Aid and even made a surprise appearance for a Shropshire-based Sunday league team in 2022.
