Report: Brazil legend Pele moved to end-of-life care in hospital

The legendary footballer has reportedly stopped responding to chemotherapy treatment.

Brazilian football legend Pele has been moved to 'palliative care' according to reports in his native country. The 82-year-old, widely celebrated as one of the greatest footballers of all time, was admitted to a hospital in Sao Paulo on Tuesday to re-evaluate his chemotherapy treatment for bowel cancer but was diagnosed with a lung infection, said reports.

Pele's daughter Kely Nascimento informed his fans on Tuesday, via social media, that there is no emergency situation. However, reports state that his present condition has deteriorated.

Pele put on end-of-life care in hospital

According to a report from Folha de S. Paulo, the legendary footballer's chemotherapy has been suspended and he has been put under palliative care, being treated only for symptoms such as pain and shortness of breath.

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Earlier on Friday, Pele reassured his followers that his visit was regular. A post on Pele's Instagram account appeared to alleviate any grave concerns. Attached to a photograph of a 'get well soon' message put on buildings during the World Cup in Qatar, the legendary Brazilian player wrote:  “Friends, I am at the hospital making my monthly visit.

“It’s always nice to receive positive messages like this. Thanks to Qatar for this tribute, and to everyone who sends me good vibes!”

The Albert Einstein Hospital also issued a statement confirming Pele's diagnosis of a respiratory infection requiring antibiotic treatment. They claimed his condition was steady.

On Tuesday, Kely Nascimento, Pele's daughter, had assured that her father's visit to the hospital was not an "emergency."

"Lots of alarm in the media today concerning my dad's health. He is in the hospital regulating medication. There is no emergency or new dire prediction. I will be there for New Year's and promise to post some pictures."

However, Folha de Sao Paulo claimed on Saturday that Pele has stopped responding to the chemotherapy treatment he has been receiving for months to combat colon cancer, despite his soothing message and the optimistic updates. The former striker is in a unit for people with life-threatening illnesses or ailments, or who need end-of-life care, the story claims. So he won't undergo intrusive testing or treatment.