Pelé, 82, who suffers from a respiratory infection, is still “stable” and “reacting appropriately”, said Saturday the Sao Paulo hospital, where the Brazilian legend of world soccer has been treated since Tuesday.
Pele “continues treatment and his condition remains stable,” doctors at Albert Einstein Hospital said in a statement.
“He is responding appropriately to the care provided to treat his respiratory infection, with no deterioration in the past 24 hours,” they added.
Reacting to rumors of a deterioration in his state of health, several personalities and organizations had expressed their solidarity with the “King”.
French superstar Kylian Mbappé paid tribute to Pelé by tweeting the message “Pray for the King” (“Pray for the King”) with the mention “Pelé”.
The city of Doha, where the 2022 World Cup is taking place, on Saturday adorned several of its buildings with a photo of Pelé with a message wishing him a speedy recovery, AFP journalists noted.
For his part, England captain Harry Kane also spoke about the Brazilian’s state of health at a press conference. “We obviously send our thoughts to him and his family. He’s an inspiration to us, an incredible player and personality,” he said.
Pelé was admitted to Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo on Tuesday for a reassessment of his colon cancer treatment. His respiratory infection is “treated with antibiotics”, the doctors said.
On his Instagram account on Thursday, Pele said it was a routine “monthly visit” and thanked everyone who sent him messages of support.