Former Chelsea midfielder Oscar retires at 34 due to heart condition
Former Chelsea and Brazil midfielder Oscar has announced his immediate retirement from professional football at the age of 34 after being diagnosed with a heart condition.
The veteran playmaker was treated in hospital last November after falling ill during physical testing at Sao Paulo’s training complex.
Medical professionals determined the former international had experienced vasovagal syncope, a fainting trigger causing sudden drops in blood pressure and heart rate.
Contract terminated at boyhood club
Following his diagnosis, the 34-year-old mutually agreed to cancel his playing contract with the Brazilian side, which still had two full years left to run.
“I wanted to do more for Sao Paulo, I wanted to play more. 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, continuing my life as a fan.”
Announcing the difficult decision on social media, the South American thanked supporters for their unwavering backing during his recent medical struggles.
Decorated career across three continents
The creative midfielder originally secured a high-profile move to Stamford Bridge in July 2012, quickly becoming a pivotal attacking figure in West London.
During a highly successful stint in English football, he lifted the Europa League in his debut campaign before securing a domestic double during the 2014-15 season.
After registering 38 goals across 203 appearances for the Blues, the 48-cap international completed a lucrative transfer to Chinese Super League outfit Shanghai Port in January 2017.
His lengthy spell in Asia yielded three domestic league titles before he finally secured an emotional homecoming to Sao Paulo on a three-year deal in January 2025.
