CICINHO | Podcast Denílson Show #99

Summary

The podcast features an interview with former Brazilian footballer Cicinho. He discusses his career, including playing for clubs like São Paulo and Real Madrid and representing Brazil at the 2006 World Cup. Cicinho opens up about his struggles with alcoholism and depression during his playing days, and how finding faith and reconnecting with family helped him overcome these challenges. He shares lessons learned and advice he'd give his younger self. Cicinho also talks about his current role as a TV commentator and the importance of being authentic on air.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cicinho shares about his journey from a small town to becoming a professional footballer and playing for big clubs like Real Madrid.
• 😞 He struggled with alcoholism and depression during the peak of his career.
• 😢 His family stood by him during his darkest times.
• 🙏 He credits his wife and finding faith for helping him overcome his addictions.
• 💪🏽 He is now 12 years sober and focuses on being a good father and husband.
• 🧠 He advises current players to be mindful of who they surround themselves with.
• ⚽ He transitioned smoothly into a commentator role after retirement.
• 😊 He is grateful for the opportunity to be his authentic self on TV.
• 🙌 His biggest victory is re-earning the trust and respect of his family.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family is now his top priority in life over fame and money.

Q & A

What position did Cicinho play?

Cicinho played as a right back.

Which team gave Cicinho his start in professional football?

Botafogo in Ribeirão Preto gave Cicinho his start in professional football when he was 16 years old.

Which club was Cicinho's dream to play for?

Cicinho dreamed of playing for São Paulo FC because he idolized Raí who also played there.

When did Cicinho make his debut for the Brazilian national team?

Cicinho made his debut for the Brazilian national team in 2005 in a farewell match for Romário against Guatemala.

Which European teams was Cicinho linked to before joining Real Madrid?

Before joining Real Madrid, Cicinho was linked to clubs like Manchester United and teams in Russia and Spain.

What motivated Cicinho's move from Atlético Mineiro to São Paulo?

Cicinho moved from Atlético Mineiro to São Paulo in 2003 after going months without pay and taking legal action against the club.

When did Cicinho join Real Madrid and what was his jersey number?

Cicinho joined Real Madrid in December 2005 and was given the number 11 jersey.

What mental health issue did Cicinho struggle with during his playing career?

Cicinho struggled with depression and alcoholism for many years during his football career.

How did Cicinho's wife help him overcome his problems with depression and alcoholism?

Cicinho's wife introduced him to her Christian faith and church which helped give him the strength to overcome his struggles.

Why did Cicinho retire from professional football in 2016?

Cicinho retired in 2016 after suffering his third major knee injury which doctors said would likely end his career.