(foto: Getty Images)
Ex-Real Madrid and Brazil defender Cicinho shared his emotional battle with alcohol addiction and explained how faith and his wife helped him rebuild his life.
Former Real Madrid defender Cicinho has shared a deeply personal story about alcoholism, faith, and recovery after years of struggling with addiction during his football career.
The former Brazil international admitted alcohol controlled much of his life, even during the peak of his professional career in Europe.
Cicinho, who turns 45 next month, played for clubs including Roma, Sao Paulo, Botafogo, Villarreal, and Sivasspor. He arrived at Real Madrid in 2006 as one of Brazil's most promising full-backs, but his time in Spain never fully matched expectations.
Looking back today, the retired footballer believes alcohol prevented him from reaching an even higher level.
"I had a serious problem with alcohol. I started drinking when I was 13. My favorite drink was beer, and it was my second greatest love."
Cicinho described a lifestyle where drinking became normal, even before training sessions and matches.
"I would come home at five in the morning, and my parents didn't know about it. And in the morning, I would go to training."
He also admitted hiding his condition from coaches and teammates.
"I would fall asleep at five, and at eight I would show up for training. Still under the influence. I would drink three or four coffees, put half a pack of chewing gum in my mouth to cover up the smell of alcohol, and I would go."
Cicinho revealed that even legendary coach Fabio Capello never suspected the extent of the problem.
The Brazilian also spoke openly about other periods of chaos in his life.
" I always wanted to have tattoos, but I was afraid. Today I have 33. I was only actually sober for eight of them."
The turning point came after returning to Brazil in 2012.
"The credit goes to my wife. She took me to church when we lived in Rome."
Today, Cicinho says faith plays a central role in his life.
" Today I lead Masses and teach the story of God. Next year I will also marry a couple from Brazil in Italy. I am very connected to the faith. God is helping us to get back on track."
He also credited therapy and family support for helping him recover.
"I am very grateful to my wife. In 2012, we returned to Brazil, and I decided to go to therapy. I rediscovered the meaning of life. I am very happy."