Ange Postecoglou praises ‘brave’ Richarlison for opening up on his mental health struggles – and believes the Tottenham forward’s emotional interview can be a ‘conduit for others to reach out for help’

Ange Postecoglou praised Richarlison after the Tottenham forward bravely opened up about the mental health issues he suffered following the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

The Brazilian, who joined Spurs from Everton in 2022 for £60m, revealed in a tearful interview earlier this week that he had suffered depression after the tournament and had also told his father he wanted “give up”.

In September, Richarlison said he would seek “psychological help” after he was seen crying on the sidelines while playing for Brazil.

“We are all human beings, I haven’t spoken to Richy (Richarlison),” Postecoglou said at a press conference ahead of Tottenham’s game against Luton on Saturday.

‘But Richy has really benefited from the support that exists not only for him but also for other members of the community. Because he has benefited so directly, I think he has taken on the responsibility of trying to share that now.

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“It always has a bigger impact when it’s someone who has a higher profile or is in a position where we think they really shouldn’t have any problems.” Or we see it as a sign of weakness when they seek help and support.

‘It’s a credit to him. He could have addressed this privately, obviously, but I think the public aspect is a brave decision for him and, more importantly, hopefully a conduit for others to seek help when needed.

‘Like I said, there’s always a balance between these things, you know where Richy (Richarlison) is or anyone else, we all have challenges in our lives and there is help you can give. Hopefully it doesn’t get to the point where it’s so overwhelming that he takes over everything.

“I give Richy credit because he sought help, got the right help and wants others to benefit.”

In an interview with ESPN BrazilRicharlison said going to a therapist after the 2022 World Cup “saved his life.”

“I had just played in a World Cup, in my prime,” Richarlison said. ‘I was reaching my limit, you know? I don’t know, I’m not going to talk about committing suicide, but I was in a depression there and I wanted to give up.

‘Even me, who seemed to be mentally strong. After the World Cup it seemed like everything fell apart.

“I think the therapist, whether we like it or not, saved me, saved my life. I just thought nonsense. Even on Google I just searched for garbage, I just wanted to see garbage about death.

‘Today I can say, look for a psychologist, if you need a psychologist, look for one because it’s nice that you open up like that, that you’re talking to the person.

“Today (a psychologist) came to thank me for bringing this to the world of football, to the world, off the field too, because it is very important and, whether we like it or not, it saves lives.”

Postecoglou also gave some positive news about his team’s fitness, revealing that Micky van de Ven had returned to training after he appeared to leave the field with an injury during his team’s 4-0 win against Aston Villa.

‘In terms of injuries. Micky has trained. He has trained the last few days. He feels good and will be available.

“Everyone else came through the internationals well, which was important for us. They all came back and trained hard on Friday.”

Regarding Richarlison’s physical condition, he added: “He’s fine.” I had a little problem with my knee and we are managing it. Brazil controlled him, but today he trained and feels good.

For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support