The Tottenham Hotspur forward admitted the aftermath of 2022 FIFA World Cup took a heavy toll, despite what appeared to be a successful campaign on the pitch with Brazil national team.
Richarlison scored three goals in Qatar, including a spectacular bicycle kick against Serbia national team, but Brazil’s quarter-final exit to Croatia national team triggered a downward spiral.
"One day, while driving, I thought about crashing into a wall,” he told France Football. “Today, when I think about it, I tell myself it's pointless.”
The 28-year-old described a prolonged period of emotional strain, with multiple issues compounding his struggles during his early spell in north London after joining Spurs from Everton.
"After the 2022 World Cup, I fell into a depression,” he explained. “Every possible misfortune befell me: the elimination, my agent's betrayal, family problems, physical setbacks.”
“For a year and a half, I suffered blow after blow every single day.”
Richarlison’s first season at Tottenham reflected those difficulties, with the striker managing just one Premier League goal as he battled both form and fitness issues.
However, he has since taken steps to rebuild both his mental health and professional career, seeking support and making key changes off the pitch.
“It was the first time I had to deal with so many problems,” he said. “In all that chaos, I met an honest lawyer who put my affairs and assets in order.”
“I worked with a psychologist and, most importantly, I met my wife.”