Former Chelsea midfielder Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Júnior is reportedly set to call time on his illustrious football career after suffering a serious health scare during training with São Paulo FC. The 34-year-old Brazilian collapsed on Tuesday due to a heart abnormality and was immediately rushed to hospital, where he remains under intensive observation.
Oscar later addressed fans on Instagram, writing, “Thank you so much for the messages and prayers. Everything will be fine, God willing.” The message came amid growing concern over his health, as reports from Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte revealed that the midfielder had been on heart medication since August but was medically cleared to play before the incident.
Doctors have since inserted a catheter as part of his treatment, while club sources confirmed that the probability of him retiring is “99 per cent.” São Paulo officials are reportedly open to terminating his contract amicably should he choose to prioritize his health and family.
Family Pressure Mounts as Wife Urges Him to Quit Football
Oscar’s wife, Ludmila Emboaba, and his family have reportedly played a major role in urging him to end his professional career. Following the collapse, Ludmila reportedly pleaded with the father of two to “put his health and family first.” The couple, who share two children — Julia and Caio — are understood to be prioritizing a more stable and peaceful life away from the game.
Friends close to the family told local media that Ludmila has been deeply concerned since Oscar fainted during training, adding that “no amount of money is worth risking his life.” The midfielder’s wife has been by his side throughout his recovery, emphasizing the importance of family time and wellness over career achievements.
With his family’s financial future already secure, Oscar is said to be leaning towards an early retirement — a decision that could officially mark the end of a glittering 17-year professional journey that took him from São Paulo to London and then to China’s mega-rich Super League.
A Fortune Built in China’s Football Boom
Oscar’s decision may come easier knowing that he is financially set for life. Oscar earned an estimated £150 million during his eight-year spell with Shanghai Port, where he was reportedly paid £400,000 per week — one of the most lucrative contracts in football history.
His move to China in 2017 for a staggering £60 million from Chelsea shocked the football world, as many saw it as a career step down. However, the Brazilian justified his decision by delivering consistent performances, scoring 77 goals and providing 141 assists in 248 appearances. He also lifted the Chinese Super League title three times, along with the FA Cup and Super Cup.
While many foreign stars left China after the country’s financial retrenchment in football, Oscar remained loyal to his club — a decision that solidified both his legacy and financial independence. Today, at 34, he stands as one of the highest-earning Brazilian footballers of all time.
Oscar Return to Boyhood Club Ends in Pain and Uncertainty
Oscar returned to São Paulo FC in December 2024, signing a three-year deal that was meant to complete a fairytale homecoming. The midfielder expressed deep joy at the move, saying, “I’m happy to be back in Brazil and to play for São Paulo — the club where I started, where I grew up, and where I belong.”
However, his return has been marred by injuries and health complications. In August, he fractured a vertebrae during a match against Corinthians, sidelining him for weeks. Just as he began recovering, the heart-related incident in November cast fresh doubts over his future in football.
A statement from São Paulo FC confirmed the seriousness of the episode, noting that Oscar “presented an incident with cardiological changes” during a fitness examination and was promptly attended to by club doctors and specialists at Einstein Hospital. The club assured fans that he remains in stable condition but under close medical observation.
A Glittering Career Overshadowed by Health Concerns
Oscar’s career has been marked by brilliance and consistency. During his five years at Chelsea (2012–2016), he became a fan favorite for his creativity and energy in midfield. He made 203 appearances, scoring 38 goals, and won the Premier League, Europa League, and League Cup with the Blues.
Internationally, he earned over 40 caps for Brazil, featuring at the 2014 World Cup and scoring in the 7–1 semifinal loss to Germany — Brazil’s most painful defeat in history. Despite his early move to China, Oscar remained widely respected for his professionalism and humility.
Now, as he faces the prospect of early retirement, tributes continue to pour in from former teammates, fans, and clubs across the globe. If his decision becomes official, Oscar’s story will stand as a reminder that even in a game of riches and glory, health remains the ultimate victory.
