Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano in coma after heart attack

Former Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano is in an induced coma in a Madrid hospital after suffering a heart attack Saturday afternoon.

The 88-year-old, who celebrated his birthday Friday, was taken to the Gregorio Maranon hospital in the capital after suffering a heart attack when leaving a restaurant, Xinhua reported.

The hospital released a statement Saturday evening, which said the former footballer, who is honorary president at Real Madrid, is "stable within a serious condition", and is in an induced coma, while his breathing is being assisted.

Di Stefano has been in declining health for quite some time.

The Argentinean is considered one of the greatest players in history and after joining Real Madrid, who beat rivals FC Barcelona to his transfer in controversial manner in 1953, he led Real Madrid to the conquest of five consecutive European Cups between 1956 and 1960.

He played international football for both Argentina and Spain and after retiring as a player went into management, leading several Spanish clubs, including Real Madrid on two occasions.