Fredy Guarín opens up about alcohol battle and post-career struggles

Fredy Guarín was once one of the best Colombian football players. Several years after ending his professional career, the 37-year-old admitted that he is battling an alcohol addiction.

Fredy Guarín travelled to many countries during his prosperous football career. He played for several years in renowned European clubs such as FC Porto and Inter Milan. He also appeared in 57 matches for the Colombian national team, with which he went to the World Cup in Brazil in 2014.

Guarín ended his career on 10 July 2021 at Colombian club Millonarios FC. Shortly after that, his problems began. The Colombian attacked his parents. It turned out that he was under the influence of intoxicating substances. He also got into a scuffle with the police officers trying to detain him.

However, that was just the tip of the iceberg. Recently, Guarín gave an interview to the magazine "Semana" and admitted that he is struggling with alcohol addiction and is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

Alcohol was always the worst trigger for what I saw. I admit that I am a 100-percent alcoholic. I am in rehab to regain my confidence but also my family. I knocked on the gates of hell and realized where I found myself. I allowed myself to be helped," he said.

Guarín admitted that his problems caused him to lose contact with his wife and children. He also mentioned that after ending his professional career, he couldn't cope with the new reality.

When I finished my football career, I didn't know what to do next in life. For 20 years, I dedicated myself to football and did not prepare for this moment. I was helpless and made wrong decisions. I got lost and drank too much alcohol. I made many rash decisions and hurt many people," he said.