AliousRicharlison has opened up about one of the darkest periods of his life, revealing he once considered crashing his car while battling depression in the aftermath of the 2022 World Cup.
Despite enjoying a strong tournament on paper — including a stunning overhead kick against Serbia national football team that was widely regarded as the goal of the tournament — the Brazil national football team forward struggled deeply after their quarter-final exit to Croatia national football team on penalties.
Speaking to France Football, the Tottenham Hotspur striker admitted:
“One day, while driving, I thought about crashing into a wall. Today, when I think about it, I tell myself it’s pointless.”
The emotional toll of the tournament, combined with personal and professional struggles, left a lasting impact on the 28-year-old. He revealed that after the World Cup, he fell into a deep depression.
“Every possible misfortune happened to me — the elimination, my agent’s betrayal, family problems, physical setbacks. For a year and a half, it was one blow after another.”
After joining Spurs from Everton in 2022, Richarlison endured a difficult debut season, scoring just once in the Premier League. However, he credits therapy and support around him for helping him recover and regain a positive mindset.
“It was the first time I had to deal with so many problems. In all that chaos, I found people who helped me — a lawyer who organised my affairs, a psychologist, and most importantly, I met my wife.”
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Richarlison plans to follow advice from Casemiro by staying away from social media if selected by Carlo Ancelotti.
This isn’t the first time he has spoken publicly about his mental health struggles. In an earlier interview with ESPN Brasil in 2024, he admitted he had reached breaking point during that period.
Now, he is using his experience to encourage others to seek help, stressing the importance of speaking to a professional.
“If you need a psychologist, look for one. Talking helps — it’s important, and it saves lives.”
Richarlison, who has scored 10 goals in 38 appearances for Spurs this season, last featured for Brazil in October 2025 and remains focused on rebuilding both his career and mental well-being.
Alious
