Football legend Roberto Carlos has moved to quash rumours that he suffered a heart attack, confirming a recent hospital stay was for a planned preventative procedure.
Clarification from the hospital bed
The former Brazil and Real Madrid left-back, now 52, took to his Instagram account to address speculation that had spread following his surgery. Posting a photo from his hospital bed, Carlos provided a statement in both English and Brazilian Portuguese to set the record straight.
"I would like to clarify recent information that has been circling," Carlos wrote. "I recently underwent a preventative medical procedure, planned in advance with my medical team."
He was keen to emphasise that the situation was not an emergency cardiac event, directly stating: "I did not suffer a heart attack."
Details of the procedure and recovery
Reports from Spain had suggested the iconic defender required emergency heart surgery after a small clot was discovered in his leg, with a subsequent MRI scan allegedly revealing a separate cardiac issue. It was claimed he then underwent a three-hour operation to fit a tube and correct the problem.
Carlos, however, described the surgery as successful and pre-planned. "The procedure was successful, and I am well," he assured his followers. "I am recovering well, and looking forward to returning to full fitness and resuming my professional and personal commitments soon."
He extended his gratitude to the medical team who cared for him and thanked the public for their messages of support, concluding with a note of reassurance: "I would like to reassure everyone there is no cause for concern."
Support from footballing royalty
The post quickly attracted supportive comments from some of the sport's biggest names. Former Real Madrid teammate David Beckham commented, "Love you my friend," while ex-Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos wrote, "Amigo mio" (my friend).
Roberto Carlos enjoyed a storied playing career, most notably at Real Madrid where he made 527 appearances, scoring 69 goals. His trophy haul with the Spanish giants included four La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League trophies.
On the international stage, he earned 125 caps for Brazil and was a pivotal member of the squad that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Since retiring, he has maintained a public profile, participating in charity matches like Soccer Aid and even making a surprise appearance for a Shropshire Sunday league team in 2022.
