Richarlison reveals therapy 'saved my life' after Tottenham and Brazil player hit 'rock bottom' due to personal issues
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Updated 20/03/2024 at 13:37 GMT
Richarlison has encouraged his Brazil team-mates to "seek help" if they are struggling with personal issues after admitting therapy saved his life. The 26-year-old said he hit "rock bottom" at his worst but added that he is back to "100%" after weekly sessions with a psychologist. Richarlison has scored 11 times in all competitions for Tottenham this season and is nearing 50 caps for Brazil.
Richarlison of Brazil in action during a Brazil training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on March 19, 2024 in London Colney, England.
Image credit: Getty Images
Richarlison has revealed issues away from the football pitch left him at "rock bottom" and credited therapy for saving his life.
The Brazil and Tottenham forward admitted last year a "turbulent time off the field" was affecting his performances for club and country but said he is now back to "100%" following weekly sessions with a therapist.
Brazil's Football Confederation announced they had appointed Marisa Lucia Santiago as the national team's psychologist and Richarlison encouraged his team-mates to "seek help" if they are suffering.
"It is very important for the national team to have a psychologist who can help the players," Richarlison said. "Only we know the pressure we suffer, not only on the pitch but off it.
"I suffered more even outside. It's important to have a psychologist."
He added: "We know the prejudice that exists when someone says they are looking for help - I myself had it but I don’t have it anymore.
"As a national team player with an active voice, I tell people to seek help because it saved my life because I was already at rock bottom."
Richarlison also struggled with a persistent groin problem last year before undergoing surgery in November.
He scored just twice in all competitions this season for Spurs prior to his surgery but has netted nine times in 15 appearances since returning to Ange Postecoglou's side.
The 26-year-old is approaching 50 caps for Brazil and already has his sights set on reaching 100 national appearances and lifting silverware in the famous yellow jersey.
"I went through months of difficulty, with pain in my groin," he added. "Thankfully, I had the operation and it went well. I worked hard and I returned earlier thank expected. I feel 100%.
"I don't want to stop, I want more, the next mark will be 100 [international] games. I hope I can progress and achieve important titles. [It is a] very big responsibility to wear this jersey.
"I myself carry a very strong image, where children like me a lot. I always try to walk the line, so as not to disappoint.
"I know the responsibility I carry with this shirt, [and] for a big club in England [also]."
Brazil face England on March 23 before taking on Spain three days later.
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