Oscar retires from professional football at 34
Oscar, the former Chelsea midfielder who became a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge, has confirmed his retirement from professional football at the age of 34 after terminating his contract with Sao Paulo, reports BritPanorama.
The Brazilian playmaker’s decision comes five months after he collapsed during a training session due to a heart condition known as vasovagal syncope. This condition, which results in fainting when blood pressure and heart rate drop rapidly, necessitated medical intervention, including surgery, after his initial collapse.
In an emotional video message, Oscar reflected on his disappointment at not being able to contribute more to his boyhood club. “I wanted to do more for Sao Paulo, I wanted to play more,” he stated. “I think I had both the footballing ability and the age to play more, but unfortunately this happened.”
Oscar joined Chelsea in 2012 from SC Internacional for approximately £25 million and made an immediate impact, scoring twice against Juventus during his debut campaign. He accumulated 203 appearances for the Blues, netting 38 goals and providing 31 assists, while his tenure included a Europa League victory and two Premier League titles.
His departure from Chelsea became particularly lucrative, as he moved to Shanghai Port for a reported £60 million, earning around £400,000 weekly. During his eight seasons in the Chinese Super League, he won three league titles, a Chinese Cup, and the FA Super Cup, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the competition.
After returning to Sao Paulo on a three-year deal, Oscar intended to rekindle his connection with his roots, although this chapter was cut short by his health issues. His final match for Shanghai in 2024 saw a deeply emotional farewell, with Oscar visibly moved as he bid adieu to supporters.
Now retired, Oscar will support Sao Paulo as a fan, marking the end of a significant chapter in a career that, despite its premature conclusion, left an indelible mark on both English and Brazilian football.
In football, the line between triumph and tragedy is perilously thin, an evocative reminder of how swiftly fortunes can change, and how often the beautiful game demands both passion and perseverance.
