Roberto Carlos: Real Madrid legend's heart surgery complicated

Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos is recovering after undergoing heart surgery while on holiday in his native Brazil, according to reports from Spanish sports daily Diario AS.

The 52-year-old former left-back, who currently serves as an ambassador for Real Madrid, reportedly learned of the heart issue during a routine medical examination.

Carlos was initially being checked for a minor blood clot in his leg when doctors carried out a full-body MRI, which unexpectedly revealed a cardiac dysfunction.

Following the discovery, Roberto Carlos was admitted to the hospital and underwent a catheterisation procedure.

According to AS, the operation was originally expected to last around 40 minutes but extended to nearly three hours due to an unforeseen complication.

Despite the delay, the surgery was ultimately successful. Medical sources have indicated that Carlos is now out of danger, though he will remain under observation for at least 48 hours to ensure a smooth recovery.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest attacking full-backs in football history, Roberto Carlos enjoyed an illustrious career at both club and international level.

He earned 125 caps for Brazil and played a key role in the national team’s triumph at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, having also reached the final in 1998.

At the club level, Carlos spent 11 trophy-laden years with Real Madrid, winning three UEFA Champions League titles along with numerous domestic honours. He also added two Copa América titles to his international résumé.