Published: 10 April, 2009, 11:59
Edited: 10 April, 2009, 11:59
Brazil and Inter Milan striker Adriano has stunned the football world saying he's taking an indefinite break from football while he reconsiders his future.
Adriano, who disappeared for three days following Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Peru last week, called a news conference at a Rio de Janeiro hotel to announce his intention not to return to Inter for now.
“Right now I am only thinking about my health,” Adriano stressed in the press conference with Sky Sport24.
“This is my reasoning behind why I want to stop playing football, at least temporarily anyway.
“I have lost the passion to play,” Adriano added, saying that he is solely focused on dealing with his own personal problems for now.
The 27-year-old went on to discuss his current contract with the Nerazzurri, and that he is prepared to sacrifice that as well.
“I am prepared to give up the money of my salary if need be.”
Recent reports suggest that Adriano is suffering from a form of depression since his recent break up with his girlfriend.