France World Cup Winner Samuel Umtiti Announces Retirement at 31
French defender Samuel Umtiti has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31, bringing an end to a career marked by both glittering triumphs and persistent injury struggles.
Umtiti, who had been a free agent since leaving Lille at the end of the 2024–25 season, confirmed his decision in a heartfelt Instagram post, stating that after an intense journey filled with highs and lows, the time had come to step away from the game. He added that he gave everything with passion and has no regrets.
The defender rose through the ranks at Olympique Lyonnais before sealing a move to Barcelona in 2016, where he won seven trophies including two La Liga titles and three Copa del Rey crowns. He reached the peak of his career with the French national team in 2018, scoring the decisive goal in the World Cup semi-final against Belgium and helping Les Bleus lift the trophy in Moscow.
Recurring knee injuries, however, curtailed his playing time in later years and played a key role in his decision to retire early. Despite those setbacks, Umtiti leaves behind a legacy as one of France’s modern defensive greats and a player remembered for his composure, strength, and contributions on the biggest stage.
Tags: Barcelona Fc France National Football Team La Liga Signstvkenya World Cup 2022 Editor's Pick
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FELIX MAKONA
An editor at Signs Tv
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT. WELL DRAWN INSIGHTS ABOUT WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD OF SPORTS BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY . THIS IS RANGING FROM PARALYMPICS, BALL GAMES, ATHLETICS, RUGBY, TENNIS, GOLF, RACING AND SAFARI RALLY
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