The Unsung Hero of French Football: Mathieu Valbuena’s Amazing Journey
When it comes to football legends, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pepe, and Cristiano Ronaldo are often at the forefront of conversation. But there’s another French midfielder who’s about to join the elite ranks of footballers playing at an incredible level well into their 40s. Meet Mathieu Valbuena, the speedy and explosive attacker who’s just joined his eighth European top-tier club – Athens Kallithea – at the age of 39.
Since bursting onto the scene with French second-level club Libourne, Valbuena has only played for top-flight teams. Marseille saw the best of him, where he spent eight years before moving to Dynamo Moscow, Lyon, Fenerbahce, and Olympiacos. Last season, he joined Cypriot side last season, but he’s now back in Greece, eager to prove himself once more.
Valbuena’s career has been marked by several highlights, including winning 52 caps for France, scoring eight goals and providing 20 assists. He was a key player alongside Karim Benzema and Antoine Griezmann during his time with the French national team.
However, it was a highly publicized court case in 2015 that cast a shadow over Valbuena’s career. Benzema was given a one-year suspended sentence for his role in attempting to blackmail Valbuena over a sex tape. Despite this ordeal, Valbuena remains a beloved figure in French football.
As he prepares for his new season with Athens Kallithea, Valbuena remains as fired up as ever. "I’m very happy to arrive at Athens Kallithea," he said. "I’m so excited to meet everyone in the team and I can’t wait for the first match of the season. The most important thing for me is the commitment to fight for Athens Kallithea in every single match and I hope we have a great season."
Why Valbuena’s Journey Matters
Valbuena’s dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity are a testament to his character. As he joins his 8th top-tier club, he’s defying the odds and showing that football is a game for those who love it, regardless of age. With his electric pace and skills, he’s sure to make a big impact in the Greek league.
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