Tottenham Hotspur striker Richarlison had a rough Monday. It all started with the news that he’s been left out of the national team, and then was got benched by Ange Postecoglou, not even being brought to the pitch in Spurs’ 4-1 defeat to Chelsea.
Even though the 26-year-old was clearly down, he still had a word with ESPN Brasil after the match and opened up about his situation.
Richarlison spoke to reporter João Castelo-Branco, and was first asked about his absence at the national team. The Tottenham player admitted he’s not in his best form, and claimed he’ll work hard to earn back that place in the squad.
“The national team is part of me. I think it’s always been a dream to wear the shirt. Of course I was sad at the time not to be there, but I understand Diniz. If I were him, I wouldn’t call me up, either. I haven’t been playing good football, I’ve been missing out. Of course I’ve improved in recent games, but I’m still a long way from wearing the national team shirt,” Richarlison told ESPN Brasil.
Richarlison then spoke about his current season at Tottenham, where he has two goals and three assists in 11 appearances. The striker revealed he’s been struggling with fitness issues, and was nearly in tears, with his voice wavering, when revealing he should be sidelined for a while.
“Of course I expected to play today because it was an important game, a derby. I found out yesterday that I wasn’t going to play, but that’s part of football. Of course, national team, call-ups, you can ask any player and they’ll be waiting. Of course I was expecting it, but I felt it was also time to take a break.
“Look, the last few months haven’t been easy for me. I’ve also been suffering with my health, I think I’ve already spoken to the doctors and I’m going to have surgery on my pubis soon. I’ve been suffering for eight months, fighting, looking at the national team, the club and not looking at myself. I think the time has come to rest, to take a break. We’ll see over the next few days, soon I’ll do what’s best for me.”
Tottenham have just one more game before the international break, so this is probably a good time for him to take care of his body and mind.
