Fresh concern for Pele as he starts receiving care for renal and cardiac dysfunctions

Brazilian star Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known around the world as Pele, is receiving treatment related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions, his doctors stated on Wednesday.

Pele has been hospitalized in Sao Paulo for three weeks while being treated for colon cancer.

'Idol' Pele receives prayers and 'get well soon' wishes from Wenger and KlinsmannAP

"There is a progression of the oncological disease and he requires more care related to renal and cardiac dysfunctions," said the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo, where he has been admitted since November 29.

The medial update pointed out that the three-time World Cup winner, who is 82 years old, "continues to be hospitalized in a common room, under the necessary medical care of the medical team".

Pele's daughters say he will spend Christmas in the hospital

"Our Christmas at home has been put on hold and we decided with the doctors that, for several reasons, it will be better to stay here, with all the medical care," said Flavia Arantes in a message posted on her social media.

Arantes thanked "all the affection" received from all corners of the planet and, jokingly, promised to turn the room where her father is admitted "into a sambadrome" and to "make caipirinhas" to celebrate Christmas.

"The love for him, the stories and your prayers are a huge comfort because we know we are not alone," said the daughter of the former Santos and Cosmos striker, who added she will give an update on his health next week.

The family has denied reports that Pele had been moved to end of life care.

Why is Pele in hospital?

Pele has been hospitalized for three weeks to re-evaluate the chemotherapy treatment for a tumor in his colon, which he underwent surgery for in September 2021, and to overcome a "respiratory infection" that was detected days later.

Despite his delicate situation, Pele, considered by many the best footballer in history, has maintained a presence on social media, posting several messages about the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

He congratulated the Argentine national team and Lionel Messi for winning their third star, and acknowledged the brilliant performance of Frenchman Kylian Mbappe in last Sunday's final.

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