French defender Samuel Umtiti has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31, drawing the curtain on a career defined by both remarkable triumphs and persistent injury struggles.
Umtiti, who rose to prominence at Olympique Lyonnais before sealing a move to FC Barcelona in 2016, spent seven years with the Catalan giants. During his spell at the Camp Nou, he lifted two La Liga titles and three Copa del Rey trophies, establishing himself as one of Europe’s top centre-backs at his peak.
The highlight of his career came in 2018, when he played a key role in helping France win the FIFA World Cup in Russia, famously scoring the winning goal against Belgium in the semi-final.
Injuries Force Early Retirement
Despite his success, Umtiti’s career was heavily disrupted by recurring knee problems, which limited his playing time and forced multiple spells on the sidelines. The defender acknowledged that these struggles ultimately influenced his decision to retire.
Umtiti’s Farewell Message
In an emotional statement shared on social media, Umtiti reflected on his journey:
“After an intense career with ups and downs, the time has come to say goodbye… I gave my ALL with passion and regret NOTHING. I want to thank all the clubs, presidents, coaches and players I was able to stand with ❤️”
He went on to thank the clubs he represented: Olympique Lyonnais, FC Barcelona, LOSC Lille, Lecce, and the French national team, while also expressing gratitude to fans worldwide.
Legacy
Umtiti retires as a World Cup winner and a celebrated defender who, despite being hampered by injuries, made his mark on both club and international football.