Former Premier League midfielder Akos Buzsaky has confirmed he is safe after police in Hungary launched a search when he went missing from Budapest on August 18.
The 44-year-old took to social media to reassure supporters after becoming aware of the police hunt. He explained that a misunderstanding led to his worried mother contacting the authorities after he felt the need to step away from his daily routine.
Former clubs of the Hungarian international had expressed concern for his wellbeing after the search was launched earlier this week.
Social media statement
Writing in a post on social media, Buzsaky shared a photograph alongside a message addressing his absence. "Dear friends and acquaintances. Unfortunately, significant changes have occurred in my life over the past few months - changes that have truly put me to the test," he wrote.
"Things became overwhelming, and I reached a point where I felt I needed to step away from my daily routine; as a result of a misunderstanding, my worried mother contacted the police," he added.
Buzsaky explained that he immediately cut his retreat short upon learning about the search. "Thank you so much to everyone who worried about me and kept me in your thoughts," he stated. "As soon as I learned about the situation, I cut my retreat short and we notified the authorities. I wish everyone a wonderful day, and I am deeply touched by all the love I’ve received!"
Career in English football
During his playing career, Buzsaky earned 20 caps for the Hungary national team as a midfielder. He moved to English football and represented Plymouth Argyle, Queens Park Rangers, Portsmouth, and Barnsley before retiring in 2015.
He made 18 appearances in the Premier League while playing for QPR, scoring two goals and providing two assists in the English top flight.
Earlier this week, Buzsaky's father revealed details about his son's current lifestyle, explaining that the former footballer now spends a lot of time in Greece working in construction.
Post-retirement struggles
The missing person investigation brought renewed attention to previous personal difficulties Buzsaky had discussed. Speaking on the Hungarian podcast Neked lágy! in 2022, he spoke candidly about turning to alcohol, gambling, and drugs after ending his professional football career.
"I was constantly injured during my career, practically every two years I had a serious injury. I subconsciously prepared myself for the end of my career," Buzsaky said during the podcast appearance.
"At that time, I should have turned to a specialist, because I was in a hole and I couldn’t find the source of joy that football gave me. When that stops, people tend to try and experience things that they didn’t have the opportunity to do during the game," he explained.
Reflecting on his battles after retirement, Buzsaky acknowledged the toll addiction took on his life. "I became addicted. I found a source of joy in life that I became addicted to. What addictions are there: gambling, alcohol, drugs. I fell into one of them, which I’m not proud of," he stated.
