Ange Postecoglou, the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, delivered a powerful speech about mental health in football, referencing the tragic passing of his father.
Postecoglou has had a successful start to his managerial career in the Premier League, guiding Tottenham to three significant victories, including a 2-0 win over Manchester United. His team has also defeated Bournemouth and Burnley, leading to him being named Manager of the Month for August.
In preparation for their upcoming match against Sheffield United, Postecoglou, aged 58, spoke eloquently about the state of mental health in football. His remarks reflect the growing awareness and importance of mental health within the sport.
Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou talking brilliantly about mental health in football ❤️ pic.twitter.com/6zQTR8fhgq
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) September 15, 2023
“I think we do understand it, it is just we ignore it. Who in their life doesn’t have something that is stressful? I have lived 58 years now and there has never been a time in my life where everything is perfect,” he explained viaFootball London.
Postecoglou then brought up the death of his father three years ago and stated that footballers are not immune from mental health struggles.
“I lost my father three years ago and he should have been here for the journey, so I have got to deal with it. That is me talking personally but everybody in this room at the moment, you could have one part of your life where it could be flying but there will be something,” the Spurs boss added. “It could be a family member, a health issue, a financial issue because there is always something and footballers are not immune from that.
“Sometimes I think they fall into the trap to think they are, but they are not. Just because you have money or you are really good at something, life will still find a way to keep a balance so there will be stuff in there that will be stressful or upsetting and you’ve got to deal with that.”
Postecoglou’s view on mental health comes after Richarlison revealed that he will be seeking psychological help following a turbulent spell in his life.