Paul Gascoigne, the iconic English footballer, recently opened up about his life struggles in a candid interview promoting his new book, “Eight.” This book explores the eight emotions that have characterized his tumultuous journey through addiction, fame, and personal challenges. Known affectionately as “Gazza,” he is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in English football history.
Recovery and Resilience
At 58, Gascoigne reflects on his past battles with alcohol and drug addiction, finding solace in his 14-year residence on the south coast of England. After undergoing rehabilitation in the area, he indicates that moving to Bournemouth was a significant decision in his recovery journey. “I’ve been here 14 years – I used to live round here for my rehab,” he shared.
His latest interview comes shortly after his appearance on ITV’s “Good Morning Britain” and a visit to TalkSPORT, where he reconnected with former colleague Ally McCoist. Gascoigne detailed a dental mishap prior to the television appearance, highlighting the ups and downs of his life beyond football.
Life in the Spotlight
Even at this stage of his life, Gazza maintains a vibrant connection with his fans. He recounted a touching moment at a supermarket where a fan dropped to his knees, overcome with emotion upon seeing him. “I thought, ‘Get up mate, your kids will think I fking hit you!’” he chuckled.
Despite the fame, he struggles with maintaining a sense of normalcy. Gascoigne described his daily life as mostly spent at home, stating, “I get pestered every two minutes when I go outside in public. I spend a lot of time on my own, maybe too much.”
Celebrating His Football Journey
Gascoigne’s football career began at a young age, and he always had aspirations of becoming a professional player. “Seven years of age,” he recalls when asked about the first moment he recognized his talent. His journey took him from Newcastle United to Tottenham Hotspur and later to a stint in Lazio, where he faced severe injuries but also found joy in the game.
- Notable club transfers:
- Newcastle United to Tottenham Hotspur in 1988
- Transfer to Lazio in 1992
- Joined Rangers in 1995
- Famous moments:
- Iconic goal against Scotland in Euro 96
- Tearful moment during Italia ’90
His impressive football skills helped England secure a spot in the 1990 World Cup semi-finals, where he gained national hero status. However, he expressed regret over not participating in more international tournaments, including the 1998 World Cup.
Reflections on Addiction
When discussing his battles with alcohol, Gazza candidly stated, “I’m always going to be an alcoholic… I’ve had my ups and downs in the last couple of years.” He recognized the challenges presented by his addiction and emphasized the importance of continuing his recovery journey.
“If I want a drink, I buy it myself. I don’t go out to pubs, I drink indoors,” he explained, reflecting his ongoing commitment to sobriety. His new book delves deeper into these experiences and how he copes with the demons from his past.
Conclusion: A Life Reclaimed
Paul Gascoigne remains a beloved figure in football, both for his exceptional talent and his enduring spirit. His new book, “Eight,” not only examines his addiction story but also serves as an inspiration for those facing similar struggles. Through laughter, shade, and candid honesty, Gazza continues to capture the hearts of fans and offers hope for recovery and resilience.
