News Focus
- Steve Mandanda publishes honest memoir about retirement struggles
- Former France keeper hung up his gloves in September after leaving Stade Rennais
- 2018 World Cup winner describes feeling “useless” during early months
- 41-year-old sought advice from ex-teammates Patrice Evra and Guillaume Hoarau
Steve Mandanda has spoken openly about his mental health battles since leaving football. The former France international releases his autobiography, “Les Jours d’Après”, this Wednesday.
The 41-year-old ended his playing career in September when his deal with Stade Rennais finished. His time as a professional lasted 25 years. The shot-stopper also represented Crystal Palace and Olympique de Marseille.
Inside the memoir, the 2018 World Cup champion describes his shock at losing his identity. He writes that he became deeply unhappy. The veteran felt life had no meaning without daily training sessions.
Mandanda explains how he would spend hours without purpose. He felt “useless” during this period. Days seemed to drag on forever while he sat at home doing nothing.
However, the keeper slowly built a new structure for his life. He created a routine to occupy his hours. “I am filling them little by little,” he notes in the book. He now focuses on staying busy to avoid dark thoughts.
The custodian also reached out to other retired stars for guidance. He had conversations with Patrice Evra and Guillaume Hoarau. Both men had experienced similar difficulties after stopping football. They offered strategies for managing the transition.
French newspaper L’Equipe published extracts ahead of the launch. The book offers a rare, honest look at the difficulties athletes face when their careers end.