All-time football great Pele has released a statement from hospital after fans feared for the Brazilian's health following reports that he was receiving end-of-life care.
The three-time World Cup-winner said he was "strong with a lot of hope" as he continues to be treated by medical experts in Sao Paulo. A statement from the hospital itself said that he was "still undergoing treatment and remains stable".
Pele had a tumour removed from his colon in September 2021 but went back into hospital last Tuesday for what had been described at the time as a "routine monthly visit".
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But a report in Brazil claimed that the 82-year-old was receiving end-of-life treatment after his body had failed to respond to chemotherapy treatment.
In his statement on Instagram, Pele said: "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 watching Brazil in the World Cup too! Thank you so much for everything."
As reported by BBC Sport, Pele was diagnosed with a respiratory infection and on Friday, with the hospital insisting he was in a stable condition. A further statement on Saturday said that his condition had not worsened.
Pele has received thousands of messages from around the world, wishing him well. One of them came from England captain Harry Kane. He said: "We are very sad to hear news of him being ill but we wish him well, not just me but the whole England set-up. He's an inspiration, an incredible person."
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