Roberto Carlos hospitalized in Brazil: Latest updates on his condition

Brazilian soccer legend Roberto Carlos, 52, is recovering in a São Paulo–area hospital after doctors discovered a serious issue with his heart while he was on vacation in his home country.

The former Real Madrid full-back (1996–2007) initially went in for a routine exam on his leg, where he has a small blood clot. During the visit, doctors ordered a full-body MRI — and the results revealed that his heart was functioning at a dangerously low level.

Heart surgery

He was immediately admitted for emergency surgery to insert a catheter. What was expected to be a 40‑minute procedure stretched to nearly three hours due to complications, but doctors were ultimately able to stabilize him.

According to those close to him, Roberto Carlos is now out of danger but remains under strict monitoring. He is expected to stay in observation for another 48 hours to ensure his recovery continues to progress positively.

AS contacted both the former player and his inner circle, who reassured Real Madrid fans with a brief but comforting message from Roberto Carlos himself: “I’m doing fine now. I’m being well looked after”.

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