Kakuta: '99.9% of footballers are unhappy'

Former DR Congo midfielder Gaël Kakuta has delivered a candid assessment of mental health in professional football, claiming the vast majority of players are living with deep unhappiness. "Ninety percent - I'd even say 99.9 percent of footballers are unhappy. There is a huge burden on them, massive responsibility. Nobody cares what they truly feel. You are in a world where you constantly have to deliver. At some point, you stop knowing who is next to you and why they're there, whether the relationship is genuine. Most players wear masks at home, with their families, with friends. You can pretend to be happy, but do you sleep well at night? Some are forced to take medication. Many run from loneliness, because being alone means facing yourself," Kakuta said. During his career, Gaël Kakuta played for Chelsea, Rayo Vallecano and Lens, among others.