PELE will spend Christmas in hospital as his cancer worsens, according to reports.
His daughter pleaded for fans to pray for the three-time World Cup winner’s health during this troubling time.
The Brazilian football legend, 82, has been suffering with colon cancer since September 2021.
He was readmitted into hospital in November for treatment on a respiratory infection aggravated by Covid-19.
And an update from the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo on Wednesday evening confirmed the icon is still under the watchful eye of nurses and doctors.
Now, as reported by Sky News, he is not expected to be released before Christmas Day on Sunday.
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The latest statement from medics said: “Admitted since November 29 for a reassessment of chemotherapy therapy for colon tumour and treatment of a respiratory infection, Edson Arantes do Nascimento [Pele] presents progression of the oncological disease and requires greater care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions.
“The patient remains hospitalised in a common room, under the necessary care of the medical team.”
Pele’s daughter begged fans to rally round the all-time great.
Kely Nascimento wrote on Instagram: “Your love for him, your stories and your prayers are a HUGE comfort because we know we are not alone.
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“Let’s turn this room into a Sambadrome (just kidding), let’s even make caipirinhas (not kidding!!).”
There was widespread support for Pele on display during the World Cup with Brazil’s players and fans revealing banners and images of their greatest star.
And despite being in hospital the legendary striker revealed he was “rooting” for the Samba Boys before their last-16 clash against South Korea.
In an earlier social media post, Pele added: “My friends, I want to keep everyone calm and positive.
“I’m strong, with a lot of hope and I follow my treatment as usual.
“I want to thank the entire medical and nursing team for all the care I have received.
“I have a lot of faith in God and every message of love I receive from you all over the world keeps me full of energy. And watch Brazil in the World Cup too!
“Thank you so much for everything.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
