Thierno Barry reveals he was 'scared' to post video of himself crying during Everton training
Everton striker Thierno Barry has spoken of his fear before publishing a video of himself breaking down during a private training session. The 23-year-old Frenchman, who joined from Villarreal for £27m last year, sat on the footage for three weeks before releasing it on his YouTube channel.
- Player: Thierno Barry, 23, Everton striker
- What happened: Posted a video of himself crying during a private training session after getting frustrated with his performance
- When: Video released last month; Barry waited three weeks before posting
- Reaction: Everton reposted the clip with the caption 'emotional resilience'
- Season so far: Six goals already, up from eight in 41 appearances last season
What was said
"I was really scared about posting that. And I said: 'No, I just need to show myself'."
"Last season I showed a version of me [that wasn't] me and [people] need to learn about me."
"Sometimes it feels good to just lose it."
"It's the first time I cried in front of my friends, they always see me as a strong [person]. I'm happy that I can show that moment. They know I care about the club and I care about playing good on the pitch."
"The people around me helped a lot because, like I said, I'm really hard with myself and the people with me try to help me to be more positive."
"I'm always harder with myself, and I just need to be sometimes more calm. Like, you're a crying guy, and I just want to show that I'm strong to show that, because I'm not scared to show that. That's why I posted this video."
"It's hard because it's the hardest league in the world. New league, a new language."
"People can say I miss a lot of chances, but I also create a lot of chances."
"Every fan counts on you to score goals, so imagine you didn't score, you know, for three months like me [last season] it's difficult."
"This season is more easy to switch because I know I have time on the pitch. And I think when I miss that chance, seven minutes later, I have another opportunity to score. That's a real pressure. When I come to the ball, in my head, it's like time stops."
"I didn't think a lot about that because for me it's like really far, you know? I just do my job, if something happens, something happens."
Barry's honesty has struck a chord. In a sport where vulnerability is often hidden, his willingness to show raw emotion has opened a conversation about mental health in football. The support from Everton and the fans has been crucial for the young striker, who admits he is his own harshest critic.
His words reveal a player learning to handle the unique pressures of being a Premier League No 9. The move from Villarreal at 22 was always going to be a step up, and last season's tally of eight goals in 41 games highlighted the adjustment period. Now, with six goals already this campaign, Barry is finding his feet and his voice.
The numbers
- Age: 23
- Transfer fee: £27m from Villarreal
- Last season: 41 appearances, 8 goals
- This season: 6 goals so far
- Height: 6ft 5in
- Time sat on video: 3 weeks
Why Barry's emotional honesty could be his turning point at Everton
Thierno Barry's decision to publish such a personal moment is rare for a Premier League striker. It shows a maturity beyond his 23 years and a willingness to confront his own demons. For Everton, it signals a player who cares deeply and is determined to succeed.
On the pitch, Barry's improvement is clear. With six goals already, he is on course to surpass last season's tally comfortably. His ability to create chances, as he points out, is often overlooked. But the key will be converting those opportunities more consistently.
The mental aspect is just as important. By sharing his vulnerability, Barry has lifted a weight and connected with supporters. That bond can only help him as he continues to adapt to the toughest league in the world.
Talking points
- Does Barry's emotional openness set a new precedent for Premier League players, or is it a one-off?
- With six goals already, can Barry silence the critics and become Everton's long-term No 9?
- Should Everton have reposted the video as 'emotional resilience' or is that tokenism?
- Is Barry's self-criticism a strength or a barrier to his development?
What happens next
Barry will look to continue his scoring form when Everton return to action. The striker's next chance to impress comes in the club's upcoming Premier League fixture, where he will aim to add to his six-goal tally. With the January transfer window approaching, his performances could also influence Everton's plans.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Thierno Barry post a video of himself crying?
He wanted to show his true self and how much he cares about playing well for Everton. He was scared to post it but felt it was necessary.
How many goals has Thierno Barry scored this season?
He has scored six goals so far this season, already surpassing his total of eight from 41 appearances last season.
Does Thierno Barry think he will get a France call-up?
He says he hasn't thought about it much because it feels 'really far' away. He is just focused on doing his job.
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