Biography
Who is Eric Abidal?
Early life and career beginnings
Eric Abidal was born on September 11, 1979, in Saint-Genis-Laval, France. He started playing football with AS Lyon Duchère, an amateur team in the local suburbs, before joining AS Monaco FC to begin his professional career. He made his Ligue 1 debut for Monaco in September 2000 during a home match against Toulouse FC.
After playing for Monaco, Eric transferred to Lille OSC for the 2002 to 2003 season, where he reunited with manager Claude Puel. He later returned to his native region to join Olympique Lyonnais, establishing himself as a key defensive player in the French league.
Success with Lyon and Barcelona
During his years in France with Olympique Lyonnais, Eric won three consecutive national championships. His strong performances caught the attention of other top European clubs, leading to a transfer to FC Barcelona in June 2007 for a reported fee of nine million euros.
While playing for Barcelona, Eric won numerous trophies, including two UEFA Champions Leagues. He wore the number 22 jersey and played as a left-back or centre-back under manager Pep Guardiola. Although he missed the 2009 Champions League Final due to a suspension, he remained a vital part of the squad during one of the club's most successful eras.
Health recovery and return to football
In March 2011, Barcelona announced that Eric had been diagnosed with a liver tumour. He underwent successful surgery and made a strong recovery, returning to play the full ninety minutes of the 2011 Champions League Final against Manchester United, where captain Carles Puyol allowed him to lift the trophy first.
Eric later required a liver transplant in April 2012, with his cousin serving as the donor. After a lengthy recovery process and intensive training, he returned to professional football, eventually playing for Monaco and Olympiacos before retiring from the sport in December 2014.
International career and personal life
Eric earned 67 caps for the France national team over a span of nine years. He represented his country in two FIFA World Cups, playing a crucial role in the runner-up campaign during the 2006 tournament in Germany, and also featured in the European Championship in 2008.
Outside of his playing career, Eric married Hayet Kebir in 2003, and the couple had children together. He also served as the director of football for Barcelona for a period before leaving the role in August 2020.
Birthday and age
Eric Abidal was born on September 11, 1979, which makes Eric 47 years old today. That birthday falls under the Virgo sign. Eric shares the date with 28 other famous people.
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