Ex-footballer Samuel Umtiti expresses ambition to take up coaching role: "Achieving this would be my ultimate aspiration"
Samuel Umtiti Announces Retirement from Football, Aims to Become Coach
Samuel Umtiti, the former defender who played for Olympique Lyonnais and FC Barcelona, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. The news was shared on Monday, three months after his departure from Lille.
In an interview given to his formative club, Olympique Lyonnais, Umtiti revealed his intention to obtain coaching qualifications and expressed his dream to coach a football team. "I've always had a passion for football, and my goal as a young professional was to become a coach," he said.
Umtiti's professional football career spanned over a decade. He played for Olympique Lyonnais from 2012 to 2016, before joining FC Barcelona. His last game as a player was in 2022.
During his interview, Umtiti acknowledged that becoming a coach requires training and time. "I'm committed to the process and ready to put in the work," he added.
Umtiti's retirement announcement was not surprising to many, as he had been open about his desire to transition into coaching. Despite his retirement, he expressed his passion for the game, stating that he still watches all matches.
In the interview with Olympique Lyonnais, Umtiti reminisced about his time with the club and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he was given. "I will always be grateful for the support and opportunities I received at Lyon," he said. "I hope to give back to the game in my new role as a coach."
As Umtiti embarks on his coaching journey, fans and football enthusiasts alike wish him the best of luck. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his dream of becoming a coach signals a new beginning.
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