Roberto Carlos, the legendary Brazilian left-back widely considered among the finest defenders in football history, has been admitted to hospital in Sao Paulo after doctors discovered a cardiac issue during an examination for a blood clot in his leg.
The 52-year-old, who claimed World Cup glory with Brazil in 2002 and lifted the Champions League trophy three times with Real Madrid in 1998, 2000 and 2002, underwent a full-body MRI scan that revealed his heart was not functioning properly.
Medical staff reportedly moved immediately to admit the former defender for an operation to insert a catheter following the concerning diagnosis.
The surgical procedure, however, proved far more complex than initially expected. Spanish publication AS reported that what should have been a 40-minute operation extended to nearly three hours due to complications that arose during the intervention.
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Carlos remained in the operating theatre for the duration as surgeons worked to address the unexpected difficulties encountered while inserting the catheter.
Despite the prolonged nature of the procedure, the extended time in surgery ultimately did not prevent a positive outcome for the Brazilian icon, whose career saw him become one of the most decorated full-backs the sport has ever witnessed.
Roberto Carlos pictured during his time at Real Madrid
|GETTY
The operation has been deemed successful, with reports indicating that Carlos is now out of danger following the lengthy intervention. He will remain under medical observation for the next two days as doctors monitor his recovery.
Through his representatives, the former Real Madrid star conveyed a reassuring message to Spanish outlet AS, stating that he is "fine now" in the aftermath of the procedure.
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La Liga's top scorers from the last five seasons | PAThe health scare marks a concerning end to what has been a turbulent year for the Brazilian, who currently serves as an ambassador for his former club Real Madrid.
His hospitalisation comes as fans worldwide await further updates on his condition.
This latest hospitalisation represents the second health concern Carlos has faced during 2025.
Earlier in the year, the football icon was compelled to delay a scheduled visit to Nepal in April after falling suddenly unwell.
Roberto Carlos pictured back in December
|GETTY
The former defender had been expected to arrive in the country on 18 April to take part in the Nepal Super League, but organisers announced he had suffered a sudden illness that prevented his travel.
Carlos subsequently rescheduled his appearance and made his way to Kathmandu several days later than originally planned, arriving in time for the tournament's final stages despite the earlier setback to his health.
As a player, the retired left-back won four LaLiga titles with Real in total.
He also made 125 appearances for his country, scoring 10 times.