After four years in Piraeus, on the Greek shores of the Mediterranean, Mathieu Valbuena decided to sail towards other horizons. The 38-year-old former tricolor international did not wish to extend his story with Olympiakos, which already saw him retraining within the club.
Even if the years pass, “Petit Vélo” still has ants in the legs and does not see itself leaving the field yet. The former Marseillais split a long message for the attention of the club and Athens supporters.
“The time has come to leave. We had a great adventure together (…), we went through so many emotions, but more importantly, we brought Olympiakos back to the top of Greek football, he wrote in particular. These four years have been absolutely amazing. I instantly fell in love with Athens and received so much love from the club and its fans. I feel blessed with the unbreakable bond we have built together. »
The triple champion of Greece (2020, 2021, 2022) will not soon forget the warm atmosphere of the Karaïskakis stadium. “The only feeling I have for Olympiakos is love and that will never change,” he continues. This is not a goodbye. I know deep down that we will meet again one day. »
Mathieu Valbuena has played a total of 150 games in the red and white colors of Olympiakos. With 18 goals scored and 43 assists. The midfielder passed by Dynamo Moscow or Fenerbahçe, free of any commitment, is now looking for a (last?) challenge.
