Sparta Prague surprised many on Monday by revealing that its sporting director, Tomas Rosicky, is in recovery after being urgently hospitalized last week due to heart complications. The former Arsenal and Czech national team footballer spent several days in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in Prague.

According to an official statement from the club, only a very small group of people close to the institution and Rosicky family were aware of the situation. Sparta chose to go public only after Rosicky was discharged at the end of last week.

Rosicky Speaks Out: “I Need to Take Better Care of Myself”

Rosicky himself issued a reflective message to fans and the media, in which he acknowledged that his lifestyle contributed to his current health condition:

“As a player and sporting director, I’ve always given my all. I’ve pushed myself to the limit without hesitation. But this situation has shown me that I need to take better care of myself. Unfortunately, unhealthy habits, a lack of physical activity, and family predispositions brought me here,” he said.

“The good news is that a full recovery is expected, although for now, I am not in a condition to meet the demands of the role. I will stay in touch with my colleagues, as we’ve always worked as a team. We have a clear vision, a strategy, and well established processes. They will carry on with our work,” he concluded.

Tomas Sivok Takes Over as Interim Sporting Director

In Rosicky absence, Sparta sporting operations will be overseen by Tomas Sivok, who will step in as interim director. Day to day decisions will be coordinated with the board of directors, as confirmed by the club vice president, Frantisek Cupr.

“Tom and I laid out a clear roadmap for the upcoming season. We are continuing to work on it, including the selection of a new coach and squad planning. He has our full support. His hospitalization deeply affected me, and I wish him a swift and complete recovery,” Cupr said.

Rosicky Stays Connected to the Club

Despite his mandatory rest, Rosicky will remain involved with Sparta in an advisory role. The club is confident in his full recovery and does not rule out his return once his health permits.

“Tomas will stay in contact with us and will collaborate in a consultative capacity. Together with Sivok, we are working intensely. In the coming months, we’ll assess the future structure of the sporting department. For now, Sivok appointment ensures stability and continuity,” the vice president concluded.