Brazil football legend Roberto Carlos has pulled out of Soccer Aid just hours before the charity match kicks off at Stamford Bridge.
Carlos took part in his first Soccer Aid back in 2019 when he helped a World XI captained by Olympics legend Usain Bolt beat England on penalties at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s home ground is also hosting this evening’s Soccer Aid but Carlos will not be involved after pulling out last-minute.
‘Unfortunately, I’m unable to make tonight’s Soccer Aid for UNICEF match at Stamford Bridge,’ he posted on Instagram. ‘Good luck to all the players – and remember to donate!’
Carlos is considered one of the best players in history, having starred for Real Madrid and Brazil in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The left-back made over 500 appearances for Real Madrid, winning four La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues during his 11-year spell at the Bernabeu.
Carlos, now 51, was just as influential for Brazil, earning 125 caps – only two players in history have more – and starring in their 2002 World Cup win.
Since its inception in 2005, Soccer Aid has raised more than £90m for global children’s charity UNICEF. Last year’s match alone raised £14.6m – a record for the annual match.
Despite Carlos’ withdrawal, the World XI team – managed by former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino – still boast a star-studded line-up, including ex-Chelsea stars Eden Hazard, Michael Essien, Petr Cech and John Obi Mikel.
Jamaican sprinter Bolt will once again wear the captain’s armband and is joined in the World XI camp by boxer and reality star Tommy Fury, presenter Roman Kemp and comedian Lee Mack.
England, who will be managed by ex-Premier League bosses Harry Redknapp and Frank Lampard, are captained by Lionesses legend Jill Scott.
The home side also includes popstar Robbie Williams, England cricket hero Stuart Broad, I’m A Celeb winner Sam Thompson and EastEnders actor Bobby Brazier.
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