Roberto Carlos recovering after heart procedure
Roberto Carlos, the legendary Brazilian defender who graced the left flank for Real Madrid across eleven seasons, is making a strong recovery following a scheduled heart procedure in Sao Paulo, reports BritPanorama.
The 52-year-old, who currently serves as an ambassador for the Spanish giants, took to social media to quash speculation that he had experienced a cardiac arrest. “I did not suffer a heart attack. I am recovering well, and looking forward to returning to full fitness and resuming my professional and personal commitments soon,” the three-time Champions League winner stated on Wednesday.
Hospital Vila Nova Star in Sao Paulo confirmed that medical professionals identified a cardiac obstruction on Monday, prompting an immediate recommendation for coronary angioplasty. The procedure, which is considered minimally invasive, works by widening arteries that have become narrowed or blocked.
According to the hospital’s statement, the operation proved successful and the former defender remains in a stable condition. Roberto Carlos continues to be monitored within an intensive care unit, a standard precautionary measure following such interventions.
Spanish media outlet Diario AS reported that while the procedure was initially expected to take approximately forty minutes, it ultimately extended to nearly three hours owing to a complication.
The World Cup winner expressed gratitude towards those who had reached out during his hospitalisation, stating, “I sincerely thank everyone for the messages of support, care, and concern. I would like to reassure everyone that there is no cause for concern.” He also paid tribute to the medical staff at the Sao Paulo facility, offering his “heartfelt thanks” to the entire team responsible for his care.
Roberto Carlos earned 125 caps for his country during a distinguished international career spanning fourteen years, placing him among Brazil’s most decorated players. His trophy cabinet includes the 2002 World Cup triumph in Japan and South Korea, having also reached the final four years earlier in France. At club level, his spell with Real Madrid yielded four La Liga titles and three European Cups across 527 appearances.
As the football community rallies around him, distances seem briefly frozen by common care and respect for a player who has, in so many ways, defined an era. The enduring appeal of those who push boundaries is seldom outshone, reminding us that every great career has its ups and downs, often intertwined with the very human journey of resilience.
