Arsenal icon Thierry Henry opens up on battle with depression in brutally honest Steven Bartlett interview

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has opened up about his mental health struggles in a candid interview.

Henry is widely regarded as one of the best players ever to play in the Premier League, scoring 175 goals in 258 appearances.

The World Cup winner lifted two Premier League titles, one Champions League and was the runner-up in the 2003 Ballon d'Or.

Henry was known for being immune to pressure and possessing a strong mentality.

But in a honest chat on the Diary of a CEO podcast, Henry admitted he believes he has suffered with depression but was not aware at the time.

"Throughout my career and since I was born, I must have been in depression," Henry told host Steven Bartlett.

"Did I know it? No. Did I do something about it? Obviously no. But I had adapted in a certain way. That doesn't mean I'm working straight. But I'm walking. You've got to put one foot and another one and walk."

Image: Getty

In the wide-ranging chat, the Frenchman went all the way back to his childhood and discussed his difficult relationship with his father, who he feels did not show him the love he desired.

His dad had predicted Henry would become a footballer from birth and showed his son tough love.

"When I was young I didn't see a lot of love and affection. My dad, the first time he took me in his arms, said, 'This baby will be an amazing football player'.

"And from that point I was programmed to succeed. My dad took full control of my body and it was tough."

Image: Getty

Henry recalled a time from his teenage years when he scored all six goals for his side and yet his dad was still not satisfied.

He explained: "One day we played a game, I was 13 years old and we won the 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. I decided it was going to make me."