Everton Ribeiro has undergone surgery for thyroid cancer.

According to The Sun: Brazilian footballer Everton Ribeiro has announced that he recently underwent surgery following a diagnosis of thyroid cancer.

The 36-year-old attacking midfielder of Bahia made the announcement in a shocking post on Monday.

He represented Brazil at the Copa America in 2015 and 2021, as well as at the 2022 World Cup. The footballer wrote in an emotional Instagram post:

“Hello, friends. I need to share some news with you. About a month ago, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.”

Ribeiro shared his message along with a photo with his wife Marilia Neri and their two small children, Guto and Antonio, by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. He added:

“Today, I underwent surgery, and everything went well, thank God.”

“I am still in the recovery process, with faith and the support of my family and you.”

“Thank you for every prayer and love. Having you by my side makes a big difference.”

“I am confident that we will win this battle together.”

Fans quickly responded, expressing their support. One wrote:

“God is with you.”

Another emphasized:

“God bless you, captain. You will return soon and be 100% recovered and healthy. God has great plans for you and your family.”

A third wrote:

“I love you, Everton Ribeiro.”

Bahia's club also supported the player by reposting his message on their official social media pages.

Ribeiro, who was tipped for transfers to Manchester United and Real Madrid during his time at Cruzeiro and Al-Ahli club from UAE, signed a two-year contract with Bahia in January last year.

Among his previous clubs are Coritiba and Corinthians, where he started his career, as well as Flamengo, where he played 275 matches and scored 30 goals before moving to Bahia.

Everton has played 22 matches for the Brazil national team from 2014 to 2022.

It is worth mentioning that goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who played for Birmingham and Chelsea, also conquered thyroid cancer twice after surgeries in 2017 and 2022. In a recent interview, she noted that overcoming cancer has helped her “live in the moment.”

As of today, it is unknown how the diagnosis and surgery will affect Ribeiro's career, given his age. However, it is worth noting that, despite realizing his illness, he played in a match for his team, where Bahia defeated Flamengo 1-0, receiving praise for his performance.

Brazilian media emphasizes that he has become one of the key reasons for Bahia's recent success. The club's next game will take place on October 16.