Ezequiel Lavezzi Reveals Depression Struggle After Retirement

Ezequiel Lavezzi has spoken about the depression he experienced after ending his playing career, describing a difficult period of psychiatric treatment following his retirement in December 2019.

Retirement brought a difficult adjustment

The former Argentina forward finished his professional career after a final spell with Chinese Super League club Hebei China Fortune. Having spent much of his peak in European football, including successful periods at Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain, Lavezzi found the sudden absence of the game hard to manage.

At PSG, he won 10 major domestic honours in France, while his international career included an Olympic gold medal with Argentina in 2008. But the 41-year-old said the loss of football’s daily routine left him facing an emotional gap once he stopped playing.

Lavezzi said he developed depression after retirement and was admitted to a clinic. He remains on medication and is continuing treatment as part of his recovery.

Family has provided fresh purpose

Fatherhood has become a central part of Lavezzi’s rehabilitation. He said the arrival of his son changed his outlook, bringing happiness and giving him renewed motivation during his recovery.

• Lavezzi retired from professional football in December 2019.
• His final club was Hebei China Fortune in China.
• He has received clinical care for depression and continues under medical treatment.
• The birth of his son has been a major source of strength.
• He won Olympic gold with Argentina in 2008.

The former forward said progress has come gradually, with treatment and support helping him rebuild his life away from the demands and structure of professional football.

Support from Messi and former teammates

Lavezzi also credited the backing he received from within the football community during his most difficult period. He named Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero and Paolo Cannavaro among those who stood alongside him.

He highlighted his close friendship with Messi, saying their conversations extend beyond football and describing the Argentina captain as an exceptional person.

Having shared the experience publicly, Lavezzi urged others dealing with similar mental-health struggles not to give up. His message was that humility, determination and a willingness to keep fighting can help people move through the darkest moments.

Recovery remains the priority

Lavezzi is continuing his long-term recovery with medical supervision and the support of his family. His account underlines the challenges some players face when the routine, identity and competitive intensity of a professional career suddenly end.

For the former Napoli and PSG attacker, the focus is now on maintaining a healthier life beyond the pitch, with his family and treatment forming the foundation of that next chapter.