Former Real Madrid defender Cicinho has revealed for the first time that he has a drinking problem – and could die if he continues his abuse of alcohol.
Cicinho spent 18 months at Madrid between 2006 and 2007, winning La Liga in his first half-season and later representing Brazil as their first-choice right-back, and spent time on loan at Villarreal in 2011.
"I'm a guy who can't drink one or two glasses, I have to drink until I fall over," the 36-year-old told ESPN.
"[On what he did most during his playing career], drinking.
"I've been warned that if I go on with this life, I'll die.
"I had an encounter with Jesus after drinking 18 caipirinhas and 14 long neck [beers].
"Today, players are only concerned about selfies, dammit! Plus hair and all those things.
"That's all well and good, but the Brazilian national team needs more attitude.
"Today I see players who ask not to play at Copa America, and that can't be!"