Janmaat - cocaine addiction

[Jammy89]

Former Magpie Daryl Janmaat opens up about his post-retirement battle with cocaine addiction

The Dutch international, who made 77 appearances for Newcastle United between 2014 and 2016 (and was part of the Netherlands squad that reached the 2014 World Cup semi-finals), has spoken honestly about how life after football spiralled.

Janmaat retired in 2022 after spells at Feyenoord, Watford and ADO Den Haag. A serious knee injury that ended his playing days, followed by the sudden loss of routine when he stepped away from the game, saw him gradually turn to cocaine.

In a raw interview with Dutch newspaper *AD* (ahead of the new documentary *Real Men Don?t Cry*), he said:

> ?I was supposed to get help from everyone? but I was left to fend for myself. Suddenly I lost the structure I?d had for years as a footballer. That was difficult. The cocaine addiction gradually crept in. You start lying to the people you love. That?s terrible ? I hurt a lot of people.?

The addiction contributed to the end of his marriage to wife Yoshi (they are still officially married but separated, and are now on good terms). The couple have three children together.

Daryl has been through rehab in South Africa and is now focusing on his recovery ? he has even opened his own gym.
He added: ?It can happen to anyone. I never thought I could become addicted.?

Massive respect for speaking out, Daryl. Wishing you continued strength on your journey, and all the best for you and your family.
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I'm sure this happens to a lot of footballers to one degree or another once their retired.

All that structure from about age 14 all gone.

Clubs or FA more fairly should probably do more to support retiring players and retired players.

[Zippity]

He was a decent players for us. Sad to read that.