French icon Thierry Henry is a bona fide soccer legend. The former Arsenal star won international and club-level accolades while being an incredible goal scorer. However, fans were taken aback as he recently revealed the hardships that he had to endure from his father during his early career. Yet, as per his friend, those times when he wasn’t ‘allowed to make a mistake‘ shaped him into the icon he eventually became.

In a recent interview, the French legend opened up about the role of his father, Antoine Henry in his development as a soccer player. In fact, Antoine’s first words while holding a baby Thierry were that he would become an ‘amazing‘ soccer player. Looks like his bold prediction did end up coming true.

Henry was pushed to ‘perform, perform, perform’ and score goals during his younger days, claimed the Frenchman’s pal

Former French soccer star Jerome Rothen spoke about Thierry Henry’s equation with his father on his show. He said (translated via EzDubs), “Although with Thierry we slept together very often because we were at INF Clairefontaine together and I saw him grow up and in fact, he was helped, and supported. His father was always there. He further added that Henry faced a lot of struggles and hardships. Mainly due to his father’s interest in making him a great soccer player from a young age.

Jerome explained, “He didn’t have the right to make mistakes, because he had to perform, perform, perform. He had to score goals. When there were 5, it wasn’t enough. He had to put 10. Unconsciously, perhaps his father created a robot.” Years later, despite being untouchable on the pitch, the soccer legend recently admitted to battling depression throughout his career.

He further added that he missed out on a lot of love during childhood and was always fighting for his father’s love. The father-son relationship between Thierry Henry and Antoine was not all roses, with one particular memory still fresh in Thierry’s mind.

Thierry Henry revealed childhood ‘make or break’ moment with his father

The Frenchman recalled a game where he was spectacular. Yet, his father focused on all the mistakes. Thierry Henry revealed, “When I was 13 years old, we won a game 6-0. I scored all six goals, but it was always what I didn’t do. ‘You missed that control’ or ‘You missed that cross.’ And it can make you or break you.” 

Read More: During COVID Pandemic, Thierry Henry ‘Couldn’t Suppress’ His Tears That Brought Out His Younger Side

Looking back, the French star did not allow his tough childhood to get the better of him. With 4 Premier League golden boots and 2 European golden shoes, the Arsenal icon is celebrated as one of the best players to grace a pitch. Yet his story is a great reminder that mental struggles can affect everyone, regardless of their stature.

What do you think of Thierry Henry’s father’s stern and determined attitude towards his son? Tell us below.

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