Brazilian Football Icon Roberto Carlos Undergoes Emergency Surgery

Roberto Carlos, the renowned Brazilian football legend, recently faced a health scare when a full-body MRI scan revealed a heart condition. The 52-year-old underwent emergency surgery to have a tube fitted. While the procedure typically lasts about 40 minutes, complications extended the surgery to nearly three hours, according to Diario AS.

Fortunately, Carlos is reported to be recovering well post-operation and will remain under medical observation in the hospital for the next 48 hours. Through his representatives, he has assured fans, stating, “I’m fine now.”

Earlier this month, Carlos was honored with an induction into GOAL’s Hall of Fame. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest left-backs in football history. Known for his powerful left foot, Carlos was often entrusted with set-piece responsibilities for both his club and the Brazilian national team. Notably, he scored a remarkable 40-yard free-kick against France in the opening match of the 1997 Tournoi de France, a goal that left many in awe and preceded the 1998 World Cup.

Carlos was a vital member of Brazil’s national team that reached the finals of the 1998 World Cup, where they were ultimately defeated by the host nation, France. However, he returned to the World Cup four years later, playing a crucial role in securing Brazil’s fifth title in South Korea and Japan.

He began his professional career with Uniao Sao Joao before moving to Europe with Inter Milan in 1995. He joined Real Madrid in 1996, where he spent 11 illustrious years, winning La Liga four times and the UEFA Champions League three times before transferring to Fenerbahce in 2007.

Carlos narrowly missed out on the 2002 Ballon d’Or, finishing second to his compatriot Ronaldo, who won the Golden Boot during Brazil’s victorious World Cup campaign that year. German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn rounded out the top three for the prestigious award.

Throughout his accomplished international career, Carlos also secured two Copa America titles and one Confederations Cup with Brazil. Since retiring from professional football in 2012, he has participated in numerous charity matches. Although he will ring in the New Year in the hospital back in Brazil, he is expected to make a full recovery following the sudden operation.