One former Inter Milan star has opened up about his battles with alcoholism and experiences with mental health.

Fredy Guarin made over 140 appearances for the Serie A outfit during a four-year stint in Milan.

Guarin enjoyed somewhat of a journeyman career, featuring for clubs across the globe, including Boca Juniors, Porto and Shanghai Shenhua.

And it was during his time in China that Guarin claims his relationship with alcohol began to properly spiral out of control.

Speaking in an interview with Radio Caracol, the midfielder revealed: “From the first day I arrived in China, I became a real alcoholic.

“I would get up to train, then straight after that go to drink. I'd rest a little, train, then drink. Every day was like that.

“I started to get better in Brazil, I felt like the happiest man in the world for six months, but then the pandemic hit.”

Guarin went on to explain how the lack of football activities during lockdown drove him to the brink of despair.

He added: “I would drink 50, 60, 70 beers in one night. I totally lost control, would hang out in the Favelas, I was seeking out danger and adrenaline.

“I had a run of 10 days in a row being completely drunk, I woke up with a beer at my side.

“I lived in the 17th floor of an apartment building and I was so detached from reality that I jumped off a balcony.

“Fortunately, there was a net underneath and it bounced me back, but I didn't even realise it. I had no idea what I was doing.

“I realised then that if I got drunk again, I would die. I hope that my testimony can reach many corners of the world, touch many hearts and save some lives.”

While he’s happy to speak about the issue openly now, Guarin admitted it had cost him his spot in the Inter Milan team.

The Ecuador international continued: “I started getting a name for myself in Italy and that is also where a different issue started off the pitch.

“Initially, I dealt with it pretty well, as I'd get drunk two days before a game, then play, score one or two goals, the team would win. I think it all started from a lack of understanding…

“I was so swept up in alcohol that they told me via my agent that I could no longer stay in Milan. The club warned I had to be taken away from there, right now.”

If any of the themes discussed impact you, Drinkline is the national alcohol helpline and operates in complete confidence. Call 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm).