Top 10 football players who battled mental health issues during their career

Top 10 football players who battled mental health issues during their career

Hassan Abdulsalam 23:16 - 29.12.2023

This complex topic touches on various aspects of the game and the lives of the players, demonstrating the immense pressure and challenges they face beyond the field

The issue of mental health in football is a significant one, with many top players having struggled with various mental health issues throughout their careers.

This complex topic touches on various aspects of the game and the lives of the players, demonstrating the immense pressure and challenges they face beyond the field, as per SportsLeo.

Here's a detailed overview of some prominent footballers who have battled mental health issues, along with insights into the broader context of mental health in football.

Adriano: The Brazilian striker's career was severely impacted by the death of his father. This personal tragedy led to alcohol abuse, significantly affecting his performance on the field and overall mental health.

Andres Iniesta: The Spanish midfielder's mental health issues were particularly pronounced during the 2010 World Cup, a period marked by injuries and personal loss. The high expectations and pressure of professional football added to his challenges.

Spain legend Andres Iniesta | Imago

Gianluigi Buffon: The legendary Italian goalkeeper experienced depression during his initial years at Juventus. Recognizing his struggles, he sought help from a psychologist, showcasing the importance of seeking professional help for mental health issues.

Michael Carrick: The English midfielder went through a depressive phase following Manchester United's loss in the 2009 Champions League Final against Barcelona. His mental health struggle, lasting two years, underscores the impact of high-pressure situations in professional sports.

Danny Rose: The English defender's mental health struggles were compounded by professional challenges, including how his playing time was managed. This case highlights the multifaceted nature of mental health issues, where both personal and professional factors can contribute.

Marvin Sordell: The English forward's career was affected by depression, leading him to retire prematurely. Sordell's story is a stark reminder of how mental health issues can influence critical career decisions in sports.

Paul Pogba: The French midfielder has spoken about his battles with depression, especially following a traumatic event where his home was burgled during a match. His experience reflects the complex interplay between personal life and professional pressures in football.

Juvetus midfielder Paul Pogba | Imago

Jessie Lingard: The English winger faced mental health challenges during a period when he was not playing regularly. His situation, involving resorting to alcohol as a coping mechanism, demonstrates the importance of mental well-being in handling career uncertainties.

Christian Pulisic: The American winger struggled with mental health issues during a period of professional instability at Chelsea. His experience emphasizes the need for mental health support in adjusting to changes in one’s professional life.

Tyrone Mings: The English defender experienced a significant decline in mental health during the Euros, attributed to public scrutiny and self-doubt. Mings’ story illustrates the impact of external pressures and expectations on athletes’ mental health.

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