Former Man United star talks man out of suicide attempt on bridge - as he opens up on helping police at the scene and admits 'life is very fragile'

Manchester United legend Antonio Valencia heroically stepped in to help talk a man out of a suicide attempt on a bridge in Ecuador.

Valencia, who played for United between 2009 and 2019 and captained the side under Jose Mourinho, retired four years ago and is back in his homeland.

He took to social media earlier this week to reveal he had spotted a young man preparing to jump off a bridge and intervened.

The 39-year-old shared a video on Instagram of himself and several police officers talking to the individual, before his family members arrived.

Valencia wrote: 'Last night [Monday] I had an experience that was far from pleasant.

'A lad wanted to end his life off this bridge, and he was very young. 

'I got out of my car and approached him. 

'I did not save him, but yes, I tried to talk with him. Thank God he recognised me. I tried to say a few words to motivate him, and it was very difficult.

'Thank God his family members then arrived, and he decided not to take his life.

'Please, let's take care of ourselves, our minds and our hearts. Mental health is very important. Please, let's take care of all of this - life is very fragile.'

Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira, Valencia's former team-mate at United, applauded his act, writing on Instagram: 'Great work, brother.

'You always try to help others. Good job, bro.'

Valencia's post has received over 43,000 likes to date.

He won two Premier League titles and the Europa League during his decade at Old Trafford, and also played for Wigan for three seasons in the top-flight.

Valencia won 99 caps for Ecuador, scoring 11 goals.

He went on to play for LDU Quito and Mexican club Queretaro before retiring.

For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support