A French goalkeeper who played for several clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, and earned 32 caps for the French national team.
Lionel Charbonnier is a French football manager and former professional player, renowned for his impressive goalkeeping skills and successful stints with top-tier clubs like Auxerre and Rangers. With a decorated career spanning over two decades, Charbonnier is best known for his instrumental role in securing the Ligue 1 title and Coupe de France with Auxerre in the 1995-1996 season.
Born on October 25, 1966, in Poitiers, Poitou-Charentes, Charbonnier began his football journey at the tender age of 16, training with Auxerre. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming an integral part of the team that won the Coupe Gambardella, a nationwide French competition for under-19 sides, twice in a row in 1985 and 1986.
Charbonnier's breakthrough season came in 1987, when he became a regular member of the Auxerre first team. Under the guidance of Guy Roux, he played a crucial role in the team's success, winning the Ligue 1 title and Coupe de France in the 1995-1996 season. During his eleven-year tenure with Auxerre, Charbonnier established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in French football.
In 1998, Charbonnier made the move to Scotland, joining Rangers, where he won the treble of Scottish Premier League, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup in his debut season. He repeated this feat in his second season, solidifying his reputation as a formidable goalkeeper.
Charbonnier earned 32 caps for the French national team, although his only full cap came in 1997. He was a member of the squad that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil, albeit without playing a single game.
After retiring from professional football in 2002, Charbonnier transitioned into management, taking the reins of Aceh United in the Liga Primer Indonesia. He later managed Tahiti's under-20 team, winning the Oceania Football Confederations championship and qualifying for the 2009 World Cup in Egypt, a first for any island nation at that level of competition.
Lionel Charbonnier's illustrious career has left an indelible mark on French and international football. As a player, he epitomized excellence, and as a manager, he has inspired a new generation of footballers. His dedication, perseverance, and passion for the beautiful game have earned him a permanent place in the annals of football history.
54 Years Old
A French goalkeeper who won the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship with France, known for his eccentric style and iconic hairstyles.
Born in 1640
A 17th-century mathematician and theologian who wrote influential works on mathematics, physics, and theology, and was a prominent figure in the French scientific community.
53 Years Old
French goalkeeper with over 500 professional appearances, known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability, earning him numerous titles and individual awards.
39 Years Old
French goalkeeper and captain, known for his exceptional reflexes and leadership, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup with France.
41 Years Old
French goalkeeper who has played for clubs like Marseille and Crystal Palace, and has won numerous titles including the Europa League and Ligue 1.
44 Years Old
French goalkeeper who played for top-tier clubs like Bordeaux and Galatasaray, earning 1 international cap for France.
