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Aaron Connolly has opened up about his battle with the booze that has seen his career go down.
Sunderland striker Aaron Connolly has bravely shared his battle with alcohol addiction.
The 24-year-old, who recently joined Sunderland as a free agent, has opened up about the challenges he faced and the steps he took towards recovery.
During the conversation with Sunderland's club media, Connolly reflected on the stark contrast between his early success in football and the struggles that followed.
He burst onto the scene five years ago with a remarkable performance against Tottenham Hotspur, scoring twice and earning widespread acclaim.
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However, this early fame led him down a difficult path, where he lost sight of his passion for the game amidst the pressures of professional life.
"I stopped doing the things that had got me to that position," Connolly admitted. "I started to believe the hype, and it took a toll on my life. I became tough to be around, and I didn't know how to cope." His struggles culminated in a reliance on alcohol, which he acknowledges became a destructive force in his life.
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Despite warnings from his family, who had their own history with addiction, Connolly found himself in a spiral that affected both his personal life and career.
"I realised that the buzz I used to get from scoring goals was replaced by the thrill of drinking," he explained. "It was killing me and hurting those around me."
Recognising the need for help, Connolly made the difficult decision to enter a treatment clinic for a month.
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"It was one of the toughest things I've ever done, but it was necessary," he said. "I learned so much about myself during that time. It wasn’t just about football; it was about my life."
Now, as he embarks on a new chapter with Sunderland, Connolly is determined to reclaim his passion for the game and inspire others facing similar struggles.
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He expressed gratitude for the support he’s received and the opportunity to play for a club with a rich history.
"I feel refreshed, like the young kid who came to England," Connolly shared. "I want to get this club to the Premier League and make my family proud."
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