Explainer: What is the truth behind Roberto Carlos' alleged conversion to Islam?
The claims surrounding the football legend's spiritual journey gained further traction following disclosures made by Turkish Member of Parliament Ali Sahin, who shared insights from his recent diplomatic engagements in Brazil.
HAJAR NAZLI
SHAH ALAM – Speculation surrounding Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos converting to Islam has intensified following reports from Turkish media outlets, though official confirmation from the former Real Madrid has yet to personally verify the claims.
According to several Turkish publications, the 53-year-old World Cup winner reportedly embraced Islam around four weeks ago after reciting the Shahada during a meeting with Sheikh Jihad Hamada, a prominent figure within Brazil's Muslim community who resides in Sao Paulo.
So, what actually happened? Is it legit, or is it just another classic internet rumour mill in full swing?
Turkish MP discloses key details
The claims surrounding the football legend's spiritual journey gained further traction following disclosures made by Turkish Member of Parliament Ali Sahin, who shared insights from his recent diplomatic engagements in Brazil.
The Justice and Development Party parliamentarian revealed via his official social media channels on X, that he had convened a meeting with Sheikh Jihad.
According to Sahin, Sheikh Hammadeh shared that Carlos, who famously featured for Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce during his playing career, had been in communication with him for an extended duration prior to visiting him four weeks ago to recite the Shahada and embrace Islam.
Following the encounter, the Turkish lawmaker extended his formal congratulations to the decorated former defender, offering prayers and well wishes for peace, health and blessings for Carlos and his family.
“I congratulate Roberto Carlos on his conversion to Islam and wish him and his family a life filled with peace, health, and abundance”, said Sahin.
A new chapter in personal life
The reports regarding the defender's spiritual life come on the heels of widely circulated photographs showing Carlos signing a marriage contract with Moroccan-born business figure Souhaila El Tahiri.
El Tahiri, a FIFA-licensed football agent, manages professional players' careers alongside handling various international sports projects, which initially brought the pair together in a professional capacity.
Although images of their wedding celebration triggered fresh media attention, sources clarify that the nuptials were not a recent occurrence, as details of their union first emerged in January before they hosted a private ceremony for family and close friends on July 25.
Their professional collaboration on player development projects spanning South America and Europe gradually blossomed into a personal relationship, culminating in their formal union.
Awaiting official confirmation
While Turkish media outlets and various international commentary platforms have widely reported on these ongoing developments, Carlos himself has not issued any public statements or official declarations confirming a change in his faith.
Until the former World Cup winner addresses the circulating reports directly, the story remains an unconfirmed narrative within the sports community.
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