Former Chelsea Star Hospitalised After Training Ground Collapse
Former Chelsea midfielder Oscar has been diagnosed with vasovagal syncope after collapsing during a pre-season training session with Brazilian club Sao Paulo this week. The 34-year-old fell ill during medical tests at the club's training facility on Tuesday and was rushed to hospital for emergency care.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
The Brazilian international was participating in an interval test on an exercise bike when he suddenly fell to the ground, remaining unconscious for approximately two minutes. Medical staff at the scene immediately called an ambulance, which transported Oscar to the Intensive Care Unit at Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital.
Sao Paulo confirmed in an official statement that extensive medical investigations at the hospital led to the diagnosis of vasovagal syncope. The club emphasised that while Oscar remains hospitalised in a cardiology unit, his condition is not life-threatening and he is clinically stable.
Player's Condition and Future Plans
In a reassuring message to concerned supporters on Wednesday, Oscar posted on Instagram: "Thank you very much for the messages and prayers. Everything will be fine, God willing." The midfielder is scheduled to undergo an electrophysiological study this Friday as part of ongoing medical assessments.
Vasovagal syncope, commonly known as fainting, occurs when the body overreacts to certain triggers, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate. While alarming, the condition is generally not considered dangerous in most cases.
Sao Paulo's football director Carlos Belmonte addressed speculation about Oscar's future, stating: "Right now, the only thing we're thinking about is that Oscar is well, stays well, then we'll have other concerns. If Oscar is well and fit, we're counting on him for the 2026 season."
Belmonte added that the club would support any personal decision the player makes regarding his career, including potential retirement, though they remain hopeful he will continue playing. The director praised Oscar as "extremely dedicated" and emphasised the club's commitment to respecting his wellbeing above all else.
