Evra Advocates for Natural Pain Management in Football

Patrice Evra has opened up about the significant pain management challenges he faced throughout his professional football career, revealing that his regimen at one point included taking as many as 38 pills daily. The former Manchester United and France left-back acknowledged that the relentless physical demands of elite football compelled him to depend on painkillers to participate in matches, with genuine moments of feeling completely fit occurring only a few times. His disclosure coincided with the announcement of his new role as both an investor and ambassador for KURK, a natural anti-inflammatory supplement he believes could assist younger players in avoiding similar cycles of dependency.

Evra discussed the cumulative wear and tear from nearly two decades at the highest level of the sport, which left him feeling he had no option but to play through injuries. He characterized painkillers as an integral part of his routine, often resorting to them even when in physical distress, as the rigors of elite football did not permit adequate time for recovery. His shift towards advocating for natural pain management solutions reflects a commitment to promoting healthier long-term strategies after experiencing the adverse effects of medication overuse in the sport.

At 44 years old, Evra now prioritizes his post-football health and hopes his revelations will shed light on an issue impacting numerous professionals. His remarks come amidst increasing concerns in the football community, where several players have shared their struggles with painkiller addiction and the associated long-term side effects.

“I was taking 38 pills per day,” Evra stated when announcing his personal investment in KURK and his role as a brand ambassador. “Having played over 700 professional matches, when asked how many games I felt 100 percent fit, I’d probably say maybe five. Throughout my career, I was continuously reaching for painkillers—it was part of the job.”

“At that level, sometimes even when you’re injured, you don’t have a choice but to play. And what’s the simplest solution? Taking painkillers.” Since retiring, Evra has reflected on the importance of “investing in his body” as his most significant pursuit.

Numerous former players have also cautioned against the dangers of excessive painkiller use in professional sports, with Evra’s account resonating with many similar experiences. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has publicly addressed his own Tramadol addiction, a substance now banned by WADA after its widespread use in football. Additionally, ex-Premier League striker Ivan Klasnic successfully sued a former club for repeatedly prescribing him painkillers despite his pre-existing kidney issues, ultimately winning a £4 million settlement. Former Liverpool star Daniel Agger has recently disclosed his struggle with chronic back pain resulting from neglecting his injury and relying on painkillers.

Evra’s transition into promoting natural anti-inflammatory alternatives follows a career characterized by remarkable consistency and availability. Despite appearing in over 725 club matches, his injury record remained relatively free of significant long-term setbacks, though this durability evidently came at a considerable hidden expense.

Now, Evra sees his role as one of educating the next generation of footballers about long-term health, aiming to help them avoid the same dependence he experienced during his peak years. As he continues to champion natural recovery methods, his ambassadorial role in discussions about player welfare is expected to grow. With an increasing number of former professionals voicing their concerns, there could be greater pressure on clubs and governing bodies to reform pain management practices within elite football.

KURK co-founder Trent Scanlen expressed enthusiasm for Evra’s involvement, stating, “The benefit of Evra’s participation lies in the fact that he has ‘lived the physical toll of elite sport.’ So when he claims KURK is effective, it carries significant weight. His dedication to well-being and performance makes him an ideal partner in our mission to introduce KURK to the global audience.”