Paul Gascoigne has always been more than just a footballer. In July 2025, headlines across the UK once again turned to ‘Gazza’ after he was rushed to hospital following a collapse at his home in Dorset. Friends and fans expressed immediate concern for the 58-year-old, whose health has often played out in the public eye. His close friend and personal assistant, Steve Foster, assured supporters that Gascoigne is now in “the best possible place” for recovery. As of publication, his condition is said to be stable, and he is recuperating in an acute medical unit, grateful for the outpouring of goodwill from past teammates and the wider football community.
This incident is only the latest in a long line of health scares for Gascoigne, who has openly battled alcohol addiction and mental health issues for decades. Yet the nation’s response—a tidal wave of support—reflects just how much Britain still cares for one of its most gifted sporting sons.
A Star Born in Gateshead: Early Years and Rise to Fame
Paul Gascoigne was born in Gateshead in 1967. He made his professional debut for Newcastle United in 1985, quickly earning a reputation for his dazzling skill, intelligence, and unpredictability on the pitch. By 1988, he had won PFA Young Player of the Year, setting the stage for a big-money move to Tottenham Hotspur.
It was at Spurs where Gascoigne’s star truly ascended. Here, he captured the hearts of fans with his creativity and sense of humour. The 1990-91 season saw him fire Tottenham to FA Cup glory, scoring an iconic free-kick in the semi-final against Arsenal. That same year, he was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, cementing his place in the national consciousness.
Italia ‘90 and the Birth of ‘Gazzamania’
Gascoigne’s rise to international stardom came during the 1990 World Cup in Italy. England’s dramatic run to the semi-finals unleashed ‘Gazzamania’ across the country. He played a crucial role in England’s journey, setting up goals and captivating viewers with his passion and vulnerability. The image of Gazza in tears after receiving a yellow card in the semi-final—a booking that would have ruled him out of the final—became one of the most indelible moments in English football history.
His performances not only earned him a spot in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team but also endeared him to generations who saw in Gascoigne both extraordinary genius and relatable humanity.
Club Adventures: From England to Italy and Scotland
Gascoigne’s club career crossed borders as well as boundaries. After leaving Tottenham, he joined Lazio in Italy’s Serie A in 1992, experiencing both continental football and the rigours of playing abroad. Injuries unfortunately plagued his time in Rome, but his unpredictability and humour won the affection of Italian fans.
A return to the UK saw him sign with Rangers, where he rediscovered his best form. In Scotland, he helped the Glasgow club secure two league titles and several domestic cups. The mid-1990s saw Gazza produce some of the best football of his career, reminding fans of his rare and audacious talent.
EURO ’96: The Glorious Summer
Paul Gascoigne’s defining international moment came at EURO ‘96, hosted in England. His stunning goal against Scotland—where he flicked the ball over Colin Hendry and volleyed in from the edge of the area—remains one of Wembley’s most replayed highlights. The celebration, where teammates doused him in water, cheekily referenced tabloid photos of partying England players before the tournament. England stormed to the semi-finals, only to lose to Germany on penalties. Gascoigne was a driving force, coming tantalisingly close to scoring the winner in extra time.
Off the Pitch: Struggles and Redemption
Gascoigne’s career was as much defined by off-field drama as on-pitch brilliance. His battles with alcohol and mental health have been public and at times painful to witness. Following his retirement in 2004, Gazza’s personal struggles often overshadowed his legacy, with a series of legal troubles, stints in rehab, and widely reported relapses.
Yet, Gascoigne has always been open about his battles, often reflecting on them in candid interviews. Speaking earlier this year, he shared a renewed sense of hope, saying he felt “better now than I have in years”. He reflected on his challenges with a degree of optimism, stating his wish for the public to “get to know the real me” as he prepares to release his latest autobiography, set for publication this autumn.
The Enduring Impact of Gazza on British Football
Despite his personal struggles, Gascoigne’s footballing achievements and style of play continue to inspire. He remains widely seen as the most naturally talented English midfielder of his generation. Former teammates and opponents regularly praise his skill, vision and infectious enthusiasm for the game. He won 57 England caps, scored 10 international goals, and left an indelible impact on each club he played for, including Newcastle, Tottenham, Lazio, Rangers, Middlesbrough, and Everton.
Across his career, Gascoigne’s character—cheeky, vulnerable, brilliant—mirrored the highs and lows of English football itself. His ability to conjure moments of magic, to galvanise a team with a single run or audacious pass, marked him out as a true original.
Gazza in the Public Eye: Interviews and Nostalgia
Gascoigne continues to captivate the public. Recent interviews show him as reflective yet still mischievous. He regularly comments on the modern game, discussing the likes of Heung-Min Son and Phil Foden, while sharing memories from his own career. In a conversation earlier this year, he mentioned feeling proud of his legacy and looked forward to re-engaging with fans through his new book and media appearances.
Conclusion:
Paul Gascoigne remains a cherished figure in British sport and culture, admired for both his footballing genius and his human vulnerability. Despite his well-publicised struggles, Gazza’s enduring spirit and openness continue to inspire fans across the UK. As he recovers from his latest health scare and works on new projects, the nation’s affection for him is clear—he will always be remembered as one of England’s true icons.
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