Brazilian football legend Adriano has broken his silence after a video surfaced online showing him appearing intoxicated, barefoot, and drinking beer in the streets, sparking concern among fans.
Known for his time at Inter Milan, Flamengo, and 48 appearances for Brazil, Adriano was once hailed as one of football’s most promising talents.
Despite a career filled with accolades, including four Serie A titles, Adriano’s journey was marred by struggles with alcoholism and depression, leading him to reflect on being an “unfulfilled promise.”
In an emotional interview with The Players’ Tribune, Adriano opened up about his personal battles, stating: “Do you know what it feels like to be a promise? I do. Especially an unfulfilled promise. Football’s biggest waste: Me.”
He admitted to feeling obsessed with wasting his life, sharing his acceptance of the “stigma” surrounding him. Adriano denied using drugs or engaging in crime, but acknowledged drinking heavily: “I drink because it’s not easy being a promise that remains unpaid. And it’s even harder at my age.”
Adriano’s struggles became evident during his time in Italy, particularly in the 2006-07 season when his performance declined sharply. He was eventually loaned to Sao Paulo and spent most of his later career in Brazil.
Recalling his darkest moments, Adriano revealed: “I was broken. I grabbed a bottle of vodka and drank it all alone. I cried all night, passing out on the couch. I knew I was living my dream in Europe, but it didn’t stop me from feeling immense sadness.”
The recent viral footage of Adriano, visibly disoriented and sitting barefoot against a lamppost, has reignited discussions about his well-being.
The clip, which showed him swaying and making erratic gestures, left fans worried about the state of the former star, once considered one of football’s greatest talents who never reached his full potential.
