Michel Platini

Michel Platini: French football legend, Ballon d'Or winner three times, revered player, manager, and UEFA president, though banned from football until 2023 for ethics violations.


Michel Platini: Iconic French footballer, known as "The King," excelled at Nancy, Saint-Étienne, and Juventus. A prolific scorer, he led France to victory in Euro 1984, embodying midfield mastery alongside Giresse, Fernández, and Tigana. His legacy endures, marked by records and brilliance on the pitch.


After retiring, Platini coached the French national team and co-organized the 1998 World Cup. He made history as UEFA president in 2007 and held key roles in FIFA and the French Football Federation.


Michel Platini, born in Jœuf, Lorraine, to parents of Italian descent, emerged from AS Nancy's ranks. Despite setbacks, his talent shone, eventually leading to a successful career marked by resilience and skill.


Platini's early days at Nancy saw him rise swiftly, showcasing his prowess with a hat-trick and standout performances. Despite initial challenges, including crowd hostility and injury, he persevered. Platini made his league debut against Nîmes on May 3, 1973, marking the beginning of his remarkable journey.


Platini faced adversity with a double arm fracture in 1974, sidelining him as Nancy struggled. However, he roared back, propelling Nancy to Ligue 1. His prowess in free-kicks, honed with Moutier, showcased his mastery on the field.


Platini's commitment to Nancy persisted despite military service constraints. Despite setbacks, including injury and taunts, his resilience shone through. He returned to the field after the Montreal Olympics, signing his inaugural professional contract with Nancy.


Platini's career saw highs and lows: from leading Nancy to French Cup glory to World Cup challenges. Despite criticism, he maintained his spirit, even amidst injury woes. His playful antics reflected his resilience and humor, defining his character beyond the pitch.


Platini's stint at Saint-Étienne showcased moments of brilliance but fell short of European Cup aspirations. Despite notable victories, including a French league title in 1981, his tenure ended with disappointment in French Cup finals. Platini departed for Juventus, leaving a legacy of skill and determination on the pitch.


Platini's Juventus spell was illustrious, marked by Serie A and European successes. His pivotal role in securing titles, including the European Cup, showcased his unmatched talent. With three consecutive Serie A top scorer awards and a hat-trick of European Footballer of the Year accolades, Platini's brilliance on the field was undeniable.


Platini's journey to the French national team was marked by perseverance and talent. Despite early injuries, he showcased his prowess in various French squads, impressing notably in the Olympic team's victory over Romania. His debut for the national team, marked by a trademark free kick goal, heralded the beginning of a remarkable international career.


Platini's Olympic journey in 1976 showcased his impact on the French team, with notable victories and personal contributions. Despite a valiant effort, France faced a challenging defeat against East Germany in the quarter-finals, concluding their Olympic campaign.


Platini's pivotal role in France's World Cup qualification and his impressive display against Italy sparked a frenzy among clubs vying for his talent. With remarkable goals and playmaking prowess, he captivated audiences and garnered interest from prestigious clubs across Europe, setting the stage for a momentous career move.


Platini's brilliance, while drawing attention, led to challenges, notably in the 1978 World Cup against Italy. Despite setbacks, he rose as France's captain, showcasing his talent with crucial goals, like the trademark free-kick against the Netherlands. In the unforgettable 1982 World Cup semi-final, his penalty goal couldn't prevent France's heart-wrenching defeat to West Germany in a memorable match marred by controversy.


Platini's leadership propelled France to victory in the 1984 European Championship. With an astounding nine goals in five games, he dominated the tournament. From crucial winners to a perfect hat-trick, his impact was undeniable. The final, marked by his free-kick goal and France's triumph, solidified Platini's status as one of football's greatest.

References and notes

1.  "Décret du 13 juillet 1998 portant promotion et nomination" [Decree of 13 July 1998 on promotion and appointment]. Journal Officiel de la République Française (in French). 1998 (161): 10831. 14 July 1998. PREX9801876D. Retrieved 25 August 2019.
2. a b "Michel Platini". L'Équipe (in French). Paris. Retrieved 4 June 2019.
3. ^ "Michel Platini Biography". Soccer-fans-info.com. 3 May 1973. Archived from the original on 3 August 2009.
4. a b "Michel Platini – Goals in International Matches". RSSSF. 21 April 2011.
5. ^ "European Footballer of the Year ("Ballon d'Or")". RSSSF. Retrieved 13 January 2015.
6. ^ "FIFA Player of the Century" (PDF). touri.com. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
7. a b "Fifa: Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini get eight-year bans". BBC Sport. 21 December 2015. Retrieved 21 December 2015.
8. a b c d e "Elegance and intelligence personified in blue: Michel Platini". FIFA.com. Archived from the original on 25 October 2013. Retrieved 1 February 2015.,^ "Buon compleanno, Monsieur Calcio". Archivio – la Repubblica.it. 21 June 2005.