Clap of the end for a new 2018 world champion. A few days after Steve Mandanda, Samuel Umtiti announced on Monday that he ended his career. The 31 -year -old, the French central defender decided that it was finally time for him to hang up the crampons after a last season in Lille, still spoiled by injuries.
“After having lived an intense career with ups and downs, the time has come to say goodbye … I gave everything with passion and I don't regret anything. I would like to thank all the clubs, the presidents, the coaches and players that I was able to rub shoulders with ”writes the native of Yaoundé in Cameroon, which has 34 selections with the Blues, on Instagram.
Trained at OL, Samuel Umtiti began with professionals in 2012, before spinning at FC Barcelona for 25 million euros four years later. An adventure that started well, before many physical seeds, in the knee in particular, come to upset plans. Loaned in Lecce in 2022-2023, he then joined LOSC.
Samuel Umtiti, the man who “broke the approach”
For many, the former Lyonnais will remain the player who has
“Broken the process” On July 10, 2018, by celebrating its decisive goal against Belgium in the World Cup semi-finals, won by the French team five days later against Croatia. Without his helmet stroke, Didier Deschamps' players might not have won a second star.
“Big Sam” therefore leaves the scene with this major title to its list of selection, but also with a Champions Trophy (2012), two Ligas (2018, 2019), three King Cups (2017, 2018, 2021) and two Spanish Supercouches (2016, 2018) in club. A beautiful CV for a player who was unfortunately too often betrayed by his body.
