Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has revealed the shocking extent to which he relied on painkillers during his playing days, admitting that at his peak, he sometimes took up to 38 pills a day.
Speaking candidly, the 44-year-old described the grueling reality of life at the top level of football and how the constant physical toll shaped his career.
From the Pitch to Personal Investment
Evra’s latest venture sees him stepping into the business world as an investor and brand ambassador for KURK, a company focused on all-natural, anti-inflammatory pain management.
The former France international is championing the benefits of liquid curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, highlighting its potential to aid athletes without the risks associated with over-reliance on traditional painkillers.
A Career Marked by Wear and Tear
Reflecting on his time in football, Evra admitted that moments of full fitness were rare.
“I maybe played more than 700 professional games, and if you ask how many times I felt 100 per cent fit, I’d probably say maybe five,” he confessed.
The physical strain often left him no choice but to reach for painkillers to carry on playing.
“Throughout my career, taking painkillers was part of the job.
Sometimes even if you’re injured, you don’t have a choice but to play.
And what’s the easy solution? Taking painkillers,” he added.
Investing in Health After Retirement
Since retiring in 2018, Evra has shifted focus to his own wellbeing, calling it “his biggest investment.”
He hopes to help the next generation avoid the same pitfalls he experienced.
“My role today is to make sure young athletes understand that KURK’s product can extend their careers, support longevity, and prevent the same issues I faced,” he explained.
The Broader Football Warning
Evra is not alone in warning about painkiller overuse.
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has openly discussed his addiction to Tramadol, and other players, like Ivan Klasnic, have even pursued legal action after being repeatedly prescribed painkillers during their careers.
WADA has since banned certain painkillers to protect athletes’ health, highlighting the risks Evra experienced firsthand.
Embracing Natural Alternatives
Evra has been particularly impressed with KURK’s “plants not pills” philosophy, believing in the product’s ability to change lives.
“This sums up my entire football career,” he said. “I believe in this product, and I believe it’s a life changer.
We can help a lot of athletes and a lot of people.”
Co-Founder Praises Evra’s Influence
KURK co-founder Trent Scanlen highlighted Evra’s credibility in promoting the brand.
“He’s lived the physical toll of elite sport, so when he says KURK works, it carries real weight,” Scanlen said.
“His passion for wellbeing and performance makes him the perfect partner to help bring KURK to the world.”
Life After Football
Evra retired from professional football after a final spell at West Ham, having made 725 club appearances.
Since then, he has dabbled in punditry and mixed martial arts, with plans for his first fight initially set for May but postponed to an unspecified future date.
Despite leaving the pitch, Evra continues to share his story and advocate for healthier, more sustainable ways for athletes to manage pain.
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