Kevin-Prince Boateng has admitted he has regrets over his lifestyle when he blew all his money on cars, nightclubs and hangers-on.
The 29-year-old, who is playing in La Liga with Las Palmas, failed to settle at one club during the early stages of career.
After spells at Spurs and Portsmouth, he joined AC Milan in 2010 and shot into the spotlight with some all-action displays in the Champions League.
Boateng has admitted his professionalism let him down due to his lifestyle choices.
"In two years, I spent all my money on cars clubs, and friends that really weren't," Boateng told Marca. "For a guy like me, I grew up in a poor neighbourhood, and having all that money to spend was dangerous.
"I regret a lot of things. When I was younger, I didn't work hard because I could rely on my talent.
"That's not the right path. I wish I'd worked harder, but then again, it was normal back then, since I was the boss of my town and had money and fame."
Those days seem well behind the playmaker, who is enjoying his football at Las Palmas this season after joining on a free from AC Milan in the summer.
He scored a contender for goal of the season against Villarreal at the El Madrigal in October.
After some quick build-up, a volley dropped to Boateng, who flung himself in the air and found the bottom corner with a stunning improvised finish.
"It is the perfect team goal," he said. "The entire team participates and there is a back heel and a volley.
"On a personal level, the one I scored against Barcelona, though I prefer the one against Villarreal because it is a team goal."