Richarlison plans to seek ‘psychological help’ after ‘turbulent time’ off the pitch

The Brazil and Tottenham forward Richarlison has said he will seek “psychological help” on his return from international duty after a “turbulent time” off the pitch.

The 26-year-old had not scored for his country since the World Cup in Qatar and was pictured in tears after being substituted during Brazil’s 5-1 World Cup 2026 qualifying win over Bolivia in Bélem last Friday.

Richarlison, who has only scored one Premier League goal in 31 appearances for Spurs, suggested he had experienced problems off the field which had contributed to his form but was now seeking to address them.

“I went through a turbulent time off the pitch during these past five months,” he told the Brazilian newspaper O Globo. “Now things are a bit more stable at home. People who only had their eye on my money are no longer close to me.”

“I’m going to return to England and seek psychological help, from a psychologist, to strengthen my mind. That’s what it is about, to come back stronger,” the former Everton striker added. “Things are going to flow now and I’m certain that I will have a good run at Tottenham and will make things happen again.”

Spurs return to action against Sheffield United on Saturday, with the out-of-favour duo Hugo Lloris and Eric Dier both named in the club’s 25-man squad for the first half of the season.

Neither players has featured in any of new manager Ange Postecoglou’s squads for the first five games of the season – including in the Carabao Cup loss at Fulham. Lloris was expected to end his 11-year spell at the club this summer, but despite interest from Serie A and Saudi Arabia the 36-year-old remains in North London.

Former England defender Dier has been linked to several clubs at home and abroad, and despite Postecoglou insisting last month the player remained part of the team, he has so far refused to pick him.