Former France defender Samuel Umtiti, a World Cup winner in 2018, has retired from soccer.The 31-year-old Umtiti, who also helped Barcelona win two La Liga titles and three Copa del Rey trophies, has been without a club since he left Ligue 1 team Lille at the end of last season.“After having lived an intense career with its highs and lows, the time has come to say goodbye,” Umtiti said on his Instagram account on Monday. “I gave everything with passion and I regret nothing.”Umtiti played 31 times for France, and took part in the 2016 home European Championship. He scored four goals, including the winner in the 1-0 defeat of Belgium in the 2018 World Cup semifinals.“Sam, who joined the French national team for Euro 2016, played an important role in our conquest of the World Cup title in Russia,” France coach Didier Deschamps said.“Everyone will remember his headed goal that allowed us to beat Belgium and qualify for the final. I also recall his partnership with Raphaël, his defensive solidity, his fighting spirit.…

Samuel Umtiti, a former Barcelona and Lyon player left Ligue 1 club Lille at the end of last season.

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 […]