Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has praised Richarlison for his courage to discuss his health issue in public. The Brazilian international’s problems became clear when Richarlison broke down in tears in an interview. The former Everton forward exposed all about his depression after the 2022 World Cup. he explained how he had been in a state of “depression” when his country was beaten in the quarter-finals in 2022.
Postecoglou admired Richarlison’s readiness to share the mental health details. His condition can help other people.
Postecoglou said, “Strip it all back, they’re all just human beings. I haven’t spoken to Richy but Richy’s benefited from the support that does exist. Not just for him but for others in the community. Because he’s benefitted so directly, he’s taken on the responsibility of trying to share that around.”
He added, “It always makes more of an impact when it’s somebody who is high profile, who’s in a position where we think they shouldn’t have any problems or we see it as a sign of weakness when they’re looking for help and support. It’s a credit to him.”
Then he said, “He could have dealt with this privately obviously, but I think the public aspect of it, it’s a brave decision for him, but more importantly it’s hopefully a great conduit for others to reach out and seek help when it’s required. He also added, “It’s a credit to Richy that he’s sought help, he’s got help, the right help, and now he wants others to also benefit from it.”
Postecoglou continued, “The Olympics is a little bit of a different issue because clubs aren’t obliged to let players go to the Olympics,” said Postecoglou. From that perspective, we have a little bit more of a say in it than other internationals. Certainly on our behalf as a club, we’ll always be looking at making sure there is a balance there.
He concluded, “He hasn’t spoken to me about it, no one has spoken to me about it, but I guess pretty strong advice would be with the Copa America at the same time and hopefully us gearing up for a big season next year, I’d be suggesting rest is a better policy.”