Lilian Thuram Most Caps
France's most capped player until 2022, World Cup and Euro winner.
Ruddy Lilian Thuram-Ulien (born 1 January 1972) is a French author, philanthropist and former professional footballer who played as a defender. He was the most capped player in the history of the France national team with 142 appearances between 1994 and 2008 until Hugo Lloris surpassed the mark in 2022.
Quick Facts
- Role
- Defender
- Final cap year
- 2008
Lore & Background
Thuram was born in Guadeloupe in the French West Indies. His family relocated to mainland France in 1981. He began his professional career with Monaco in 1991, later playing for Parma, Juventus, and Barcelona. With France, he won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000, and was a runner-up at the 2006 World Cup. He scored his only two international goals in the 1998 World Cup semi-final against Croatia.
Reader's Guide
Thuram played primarily as a defender, capable as both a centre-back and right-back. He was known for his physical strength and ability to win the ball. He was awarded the Bronze Ball at the 1998 World Cup and was selected in the tournament's All-Star Team as a right full-back.
Did You Know?
- Thuram became a UNICEF ambassador in 2010 and has taken initiatives to fight against racism.
- He was the first player to make 15 UEFA European Championship finals appearances.
More in Honours & Records
Elsewhere in France National Team
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