England captain Harry Kane has sent his best wishes to Pele, as the football legend reportedly receives end of life care.
The 82-year-old was moved to palliative treatment after chemotherapy stopped having the expected results as he battles colon cancer, according to Brazilian daily newspaper Folha de S.Paula.
Asked about the news report, Kane said: “First and foremost, we send our best wishes to him and his family as well.
“He’s an inspiration in our game, an incredible footballer and an incredible person.”
Asked about the advice Pele had given him, in which he urged the Tottenham striker to never believe he is the best player in the world and keep learning, Kane said: “To hear those words back then from him was really special for me.
“And I always feel like I’m someone who is always learning and will continue to learn for the rest of my career, so he was spot on with his advice.
“Of course, sad to hear that news, but we wish him well, not just me but the whole England set-up as well.”
French football player Kylian Mbappe tweeted “Pray for the King” along with a crown and tagged Pele in his post.
Folha de S.Paula reported that Pele was no longer receiving treatment for his cancer, but would now only be treated for symptoms such as pain and shortness of breath.
The newspaper said he had a general swelling and cardiac issues when admitted to hospital earlier this week, a detail previously reported by ESPN Brasil.
Pele was taken to hospital in Sao Paolo on Tuesday to evaluate his cancer treatment after he had a tumour removed from his colon in September 2021.
On Thursday, he thanked concerned fans for their messages.
“It’s always nice to receive positive messages like this,” he posted on Instagram.
“Thanks to Qatar for this tribute, and to everyone who sends me good vibes.”