Chelsea cult hero announces retirement aged 34 – five months after collapsing in training

Oscar has announced his immediate retirement from football with an emotional statement to Sao Paulo fans.

The former Chelsea midfielder was hospitalised in November with a cardiac issue, having collapsed during pre-season training.

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He was said to have been riding on an exercise bike before falling to the ground and being unconscious for two minutes.

Oscar was discharged from hospital after he underwent a diagnostic catheterisation, and now decided to hang up his boots.

Brazilian side Sao Paulo, who he last played for in July, announced on Saturday that the 34-year-old has terminated his contract.

“I wanted to do more for Sao Paulo, I wanted to play more,” Oscar said.

“I think I had both the footballing ability and the age to play more, but unfortunately this happened.

“Now I’m going to retire and continue supporting Sao Paulo, continue my life as a fan.”

Oscar added: “I’m finishing a career here at Sao Paulo that has taken me to many places, practically across the world.

“I wanted to thank everyone for their constant affection, all the São Paulo fans who have supported me since my return and during this difficult time I’m going through.”

Chelsea and China success for Oscar

Signed from SC Internacional for around £25million in 2012, Oscar was an exciting addition to the Chelsea squad.

The Brazilian made a stunning start to life in west London by scoring two excellent goals against Juventus in the Champions League.

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Europa League glory followed in his debut season, with a League Cup win in 2015 preceding Premier League title success.

Oscar became a two-time English champion two years later, but left midway through the campaign.

After hitting 38 goals and 31 assists in 203 outings for Chelsea, he was part of an influx of European talents that moved to China.

Shanghai Port welcomed him on a deal that was reportedly worth a stunning £400,000-a-week.

Three Chinese Super League titles, along with a Chinese Cup and Chinese FA Super Cup, came Oscar’s way during his spell in Asia.

Oscar, who won 48 caps for the Brazilian national team, returned to boyhood club Sao Paulo at the end of 2024.