Pele in hospital: Messages of support from across football for Brazil great

(BBC) 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 on Saturday, 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-winning former Germany forward Jurgen Klinsmann, speaking on BBC One’s World Cup coverage on Saturday, said: “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.”

Former Argentina defender Pablo Zabaleta added on BBC One: “It’s very sad news to hear about Pele. He’s been a true inspiration for all of us, on and off the pitch. He’s always been a great man.”

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