Former Liverpool star Mark Gonzalez is recovering in hospital after suffering a heart attack.
The 36-year-old, who helped Liverpool reach the Champions League final in the 2006/07 season, suffered a "frightening" health scare.
His wife, Maura Rivera, broke the news on Instagram in an emotional post.
She wrote: “The love of my life, my soul mate, what a shock you have given me.
“The past few nights have been terrible. Days filled with uncertainty, it's been really frightening.
“I am writing this as you are still here with us and a little better - and because in many ways, the fact that you are still here with us, makes us cherish every moment we have together, family and above all, life itself.
“It's amazing how everything can change from one moment to the next.
“Life can surprise us and test us, instill fear, but with faith, strength and hope, we can come out of all of the bad moments. I want you to be with me forever, Mark.”
Gonzalez retired in 2019 after finishing his career at Chilean club Deportivo Magallanes.
He agreed a deal with Liverpool in 2005 from Albacete but was forced to wait a year to join the club due to work permit issues.
He scored twice for the Anfield club in 25 appearances and was an unused substitute in the Champions League final in 2007.
After a loan spell at Real Sociedad, he joined Real Betis on a permanent deal for £5million.
He spent five years with CSKA Moscow before leaving Russia to return to South America in 2015.
Gonzalez, who won 56 caps for Chile, married TV personality and model Rivera in 2010.
They have one son, Mark González, Jr and a daughter Luicana González.
