Brazil is praying, the soccer world is worried. The greatest footballer in history is fighting his toughest battle.
Édson Arantes do Nascimento, Pelé for short (82), can hardly beat colon cancer. According to the newspaper “Folha de S. Paulo”, the doctors at the Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo have changed the treatment. The chemotherapy no longer speaks, it is now about palliative care.
This means: His illness is far advanced and life expectancy is limited.
Three-time world champion Pelé wants to calm fans and friends, writing on Instagram: “My friends, I want everyone to keep calm and positive thoughts. I am strong, full of hope and going about my treatment as usual. I have great faith in God. And every loving message I get from you guys from around the world keeps me energized. And to see Brazil at the World Cup too.”
The doctors report a “stable state of health”. There would be “no deterioration in the last 24 hours”. The reason for the hospital stay is still pneumonia, Pelé is not in the intensive care unit.
However, the metastases have long since spread to the lungs and liver. Doctors have no choice but to use painkillers.
That’s why the football world is so worried.
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France’s Kylian Mbappé (23) appeals: “Pray for the king.”
Jurgen Klinsmann (58): “I met him often. He is such a wonderful person. He’s the best ever, there’s no doubt about that.”
Coach legend Arsène Wenger (73) spreads hope. He “spoke to his agent a short time ago. He wasn’t as negative as the news is. He said he is in the hospital but not in any danger. So let’s hope he recovers quickly.”
The Brazilian national team writes to him from Qatar: “Be strong, king. It will be alright. We are by your side.”