Pele, a football star who is now in the hospital, said on social media, “I’m strong.”

SAO PAULO: Despite his declining health, Brazilian football legend Pele assured his followers on Saturday that he feels “strong, with a lot of optimism.”

Pele, who is regarded as one of the best football players of all time, was sent to the hospital earlier this week to reassess his colon cancer treatment. Subsequently, a respiratory infection was discovered, according to local media.

The 82-year-old has since provided an update on his health and thanked supporters for their prayers for his recovery.

“My friends, I wish to maintain everyone’s composure and optimism. I am resilient, full of optimism, and I continue to receive treatment as prescribed. I would want to express my gratitude to the whole medical and nursing staff for the treatment I have received,” he stated.

“I have a strong belief in God, and I am inspired by every word of love I get from people all over the world. Watch Brazil play in the World Cup as well!” he said.

The renowned football player’s condition had not gotten worse during the previous day, according to earlier hospital officials, who described the situation as “stable.”

Doctors at Sao Paulo’s Albert Einstein Hospital said in a statement that Pele had a positive reaction to treatment and that there had been no deterioration of the clinical picture in the last 24 hours.

The statement, however, did not address previous Saturday media reports that appeared to indicate Pele was getting end-of-life treatment.