Strasbourg’s Maxime Le Marchand announces retirement due to back issues | OneFootball

Strasbourg centre-back Maxime Le Marchand (33) has announced his retirement due to recurring back issues. The former Fulham FC and Antwerp player’s contract with Les Alsaciens expired at the end of the season.

Unfortunately, Le Marchand said he had no choice but to hang his boots for good. The French centre-back said he was still suffering from back pain despite undergoing surgery some eighteen months ago. “After new medical imagery and consultations with doctors in recent weeks, I took the decision to end my football career,” Le Marchand wrote on Instagram.

The Stade Rennais youth product came to prominence at OGC Nice, where he played three seasons. He then completed a €4m transfer to Fulham FC. Le Marchand only played 48 games with the Cottagers. The West London side terminated his four-year contract in 2021, allowing him to join Strasbourg on a free. The Saint-Malo-born centre-back featured 39 times with the Alsatians. “I’m very disappointed. But the joy of having been able to share these moments and these emotions with you is immense. From Rennes to Strasbourg, via Le Havre, Nice, Fulham and Antwerp, thank you for making this adventure even more beautiful.” Get French Football News wishes Maxime Le Marchand well for the next stage in his life.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval