Samuel Umtiti Retires From Football At 31

World Cup-winning defender Samuel Umtiti has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31.

Samuel Umtiti, a French centre-back, who famously helped France lift the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, confirmed his decision in an emotional message to fans on Instagram earlier today, September 15.

“After an intense career with ups and downs, the time has come to say goodbye,” Umtiti wrote. “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 ❤️ … and thank you to all the supporters for your support.”

Umtiti began his professional journey at Lyon, where he won the Coupe de France and Trophée des Champions before making a big move to Barcelona in 2016.

At Camp Nou, he quickly established himself as a commanding presence in defence, going on to win two La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey trophies and two Spanish Super Cups.

He also etched his name into French football history, scoring the decisive goal in the World Cup semi-final against Belgium in 2018, a moment that secured France’s place in the final they eventually won against Croatia.

However, persistent knee problems plagued his later years, restricting his playing time at Barcelona and during loan spells, including at Lecce in Italy. His last professional club was Lille, where he signed in 2023 but struggled to regain full fitness.

Despite those setbacks, Umtiti leaves the game as one of the most decorated defenders of his generation with the U-20 World Cup and the senior World Cup medal in his shelf.