Former Chelsea midfielder Oscar is expected to retire from professional football following a medical emergency during a training session with Brazilian club São Paulo.
The 34-year-old was hospitalised after collapsing on an exercise bike while taking part in a routine fitness test at the club’s training facility. He was admitted to intensive care for observation, where medical examinations confirmed he was suffering from vasovagal syncope, a condition that can trigger sudden drops in heart rate and blood pressure.
According to reports from Brazilian outlet Globo, Oscar has informed São Paulo of his intention to end his playing career, with a formal announcement expected in the coming days. The decision was reportedly reached after discussions with club officials and consultations with medical professionals.
Oscar’s return to his boyhood club last December had already been interrupted by injury, as he sustained a fractured vertebra. During that period, early signs of a possible heart-related issue were reportedly identified, raising concerns that have now been intensified by the latest incident.
After his hospitalisation, the midfielder sought to reassure supporters with a brief message shared on Instagram, saying: “Everything will be alright, God willing.”
The situation brings an abrupt end to a career that stretched across Brazil, Europe and Asia. Oscar made 203 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 38 goals and winning two Premier League titles, the Europa League and the League Cup.
He later completed a high-profile move to Shanghai in 2017, spending nearly eight years in China where he won multiple trophies and established himself as one of the league’s standout players. He returned to São Paulo last year on a three-year contract that now appears to mark the final chapter of his professional career.
São Paulo are expected to continue working with Oscar and his medical team to finalise the retirement process and support his transition away from football.
