Pele in end-of-life care

Messages of support for Brazil great, Pele, have been sent from across the world while the three-time World Cup winner is being treated in hospital.

The 82-year-old was admitted to hospital in Sao Paulo on Tuesday, saying it was a routine monthly visit. However a report in Brazil, which has not been confirmed by the BBC, says he is now beginning end-of-life care after not responding to chemotherapy.

“Pray for the King,” France forward, Kylian Mbappe tweeted.

The three-time World Cup winner had a tumour removed from his colon in September 2021 and has since had regular treatment. Pele was diagnosed with a respiratory infection and on Friday Sao Paulo’s Hospital Albert Einstein said he was in a stable condition.

Speaking yesterday, England captain, Harry Kane 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.”

World Cup-winner, Jurgen Klinsmann, speaking on BBC One’s World Cup coverage, yesterday, added: “Pele is just such a wonderful person. The outstanding personality of world football. We can just pray and hope for the best but it’s very sad news.”