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Mental Health Craig Bellamy makes ‘brave decision’ to leave Anderlecht for mental health reasons

FORMER Liverpool and Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy is to leave his role as assistant coach at Anderlecht for mental health reasons, the Belgian club announced today.

The 42-year-old stepped down today after taking a “very difficult, but absolutely necessary decision concerning his health,” according to the club.

Bellamy, who has been working as one of manager Vincent Kompany’s backroom staff, has spoken openly about his issues with mental health in the past.

The former Wales international, who also played for other clubs including Norwich, Newcastle and West Ham in a lengthy career, initially joined Anderlecht in 2019 as coach of the Under-21 squad.

In a statement Anderlecht said Bellamy’s mental health problems “have resurfaced again recently.”

The statement added: “His experience as a striker in the Premier League and his drive took our young squad to a higher level. 

“Both coach Vincent Kompany and director of sports Peter Verbeke want to thank Bellamy explicitly for his efforts and show great understanding for Bellamy’s brave decision.” 

Anderlecht director of sports Peter Verbeke told the club’s website: “The enormous energy Craig has given us all is priceless.

“It is therefore logical that we must give him all the time and rest he needs. The whole club stands firmly behind him in this difficult period.”

Bellamy said his farewells to the dressing room after Anderlecht’s 7-2 victory over Mechelen in the Belgian First Division on Sunday.

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