Lilian Thuram
French defender who won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, and became France's most capped player.
Ruddy Lilian Thuram-Ulien (born 1 January 1972) is a French author, philanthropist and former professional footballer who played as a defender. He was capable of playing both as a centre-back or as a right-back, and helped both offensively and defensively.
Quick Facts
- Major honours
- 1 Cup Winners' Cup, 1 Serie A
Lore & Background
Thuram began his professional career with Monaco in 1991, then transferred to Parma in 1996, to Juventus in 2001, and to Barcelona in 2006. He won the 1998 World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 with France, and was runners-up at the 2006 World Cup. He was the most capped player in France history with 142 appearances until Hugo Lloris surpassed the mark in 2022.
Reader's Guide
Thuram played as a defender, appearing as both a right-back and centre-back. He was physically strong, difficult to beat, and capable of winning the ball. He could move forward from wide positions and was used in midfield on occasion.
Did You Know?
- Thuram scored his only UEFA Champions League goal for Juventus against Olympiacos in the 2003–04 season.
- He scored a brace in the 1998 World Cup semi-final against Croatia, his only two international goals.
- Thuram was awarded the Bronze Ball as the third most valuable player in the 1998 World Cup.
- At Euro 2008, Thuram made his 14th UEFA European Championship finals appearance, a record for a French player at the time.
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