Arda Turan Faces Criticism: “He Was Completely Crazy!”
Jonjo Shelvey, his time in Turkey and his struggle with insomnia medication have drawn attention. The English footballer, who has played for clubs like Liverpool and Newcastle, recently spoke candidly about his experiences in the Turkish Süper Lig.
Arda Turan Faces Criticism: “He Was Completely Crazy!”
Shelvey’s tenure at Eyüpspor was marked by his interactions with head coach Arda Turan, whom he described as “completely crazy.” He recalled how Turan would often joke around in the office, expressing his affection and sometimes asking about whiskey. Shelvey remarked that this behavior was unlike anything he had seen before in England.
Struggles in Turkey
While in Turkey, Shelvey faced significant personal challenges. He revealed that he became dependent on sleeping pills during his 18-month stay. Living alone made it difficult for him to cope, and he often found himself contemplating what to do with his downtime.
- Only three restaurants were available in the city.
- Shelvey resorted to taking multiple sleeping pills to pass the time.
He mentioned that his routine involved returning home late, eating minimal food, and relying on medication to sleep. This dependency severely affected his relationship with his children, as he struggled to balance his professional life with personal obligations.
Financial Concerns at Eyüpspor
Financial instability was another significant issue during Shelvey’s contract with Eyüpspor. He faced a four-month delay in salary payments, which is reportedly not uncommon for foreign players in Turkey.
- Initially offered cash for the delayed payment, he questioned the practicality of bringing such a sum back to England.
- After several unfulfilled promises regarding his payment, Shelvey requested to terminate his contract.
He ultimately returned to England around late November or early December, spending Christmas with his family. Post-transition, he managed to stop taking sleeping pills, marking a crucial turning point in his life.
Reflections on Turkish Football
Discussing the payment practices in Turkish football, Shelvey noted that foreign players often encounter payment issues, while local players generally receive their salaries promptly. He pointed out a conversation with another player, Wilfried Zaha, who faced similar challenges while at Galatasaray.
Shelvey’s candid insights shed light on the lesser-discussed aspects of a professional footballer’s life, especially regarding mental health and financial security in foreign leagues.
