Overview
- The 52-year-old former Real Madrid defender said he is recovering well and thanked medical staff and supporters in a message to fans.
- Vila Nova Star hospital stated he was admitted on December 29 after a routine consultation with preventive tests, is clinically stable and asymptomatic, and remains in postoperative care.
- Earlier accounts relayed by Spanish outlet AS reported a small blood clot was found during a leg exam and further testing showed severely reduced cardiac pumping function.
- Those reports said doctors opted for an urgent catheter intervention that was planned for about 40 minutes but lasted nearly three hours due to complications, with the outcome described as successful.
- He is under close observation and is expected to stay in the hospital for roughly two more days while his recovery is monitored.