Shelvey reveals the struggles he faced in Türkiye: clubs paid cash and addiction to sleeping pills

Jonjo Shelvey, the English player who previously played for Liverpool, Charlton, and Nottingham Forest, has revealed the significant difficulties he faced during his time playing in Türkiye. He confirmed that his experience, which lasted for about 18 months, was marked by financial, social, and health issues, in addition to struggling with being away from his family.

Shelvey moved to Türkiye in 2023 from Nottingham Forest to play for Caykur Rizespor, a experience he described as positive from a sporting perspective, as he found in the club an environment that helped him focus on football. He said in an interview with FourFourTwo: "I initially went to Caykur Rizespor, and the club was great for me, as I was able to focus solely on football."

The English player clarified that adapting to life in Türkiye was not easy, pointing out the differences in lifestyle and the isolation he felt during his stay there. He added: "It was a very Muslim area, and there wasn't much to do; you couldn't go out, and there was no alcohol. You lived at the training facility and played your matches."

After moving to Eyüpspor the following season, Shelvey faced increased difficulties as he found himself far from his family and struggling to adapt to the new living conditions. He also pointed out issues related to finances, social matters, and health during that period, including some clubs resorting to paying foreign players' dues in cash, an experience he described as extremely challenging.

Shelvey revealed that his struggles extended to his health, stating that he became reliant on sleeping pills during that time due to the difficulties he faced away from his family. After leaving Türkiye, he moved briefly to Burnley in an attempt to start a new chapter in his career.

During his career, Shelvey has played six matches for the England national team, having started his professional journey at the age of 16 with Charlton, before later playing for Liverpool, Swansea, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, alongside his experience in Türkiye.