Pelé In 'Intensive Care': Not Quite

Pelé 'Completely Fine' Despite Reports He Was Fighting For His Life

A representative of football legend Pelé has dispelled myths the star is fighting for his life in an intensive care unit.

The Albert Einstein hospital in Brazil said in a statement on Thursday that the 74-year-old's condition became unstable due to a urinary tract infection and her was transferred to a special care unit - which was misunderstood as meaning the more serious intensive care unit.

Pelé's aide said he is "completely fine" and simply moved to a quieter wing for privacy. It is understood that he should be leaving hospital within the next few days.

The ex-Brazil international was admitted to the hospital on Monday for a medical evaluation and was diagnosed with the urinary infection. He was being treated with antibiotics.

Pelé won his first World Cup at the age of 17, and has scored 1,281 goals in 1,363 games.

Pundit and former international player Gary Lineker sent his best wishes to the ill superstar.

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