Date of Birth: September 7, 1968
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Biography
Marcel Desailly, born Odenke Abbey, is a retired French footballer known for his defensive prowess and versatility on the field. Born in Accra, Ghana, Desailly moved to France at a young age where he was adopted and subsequently took on his new family’s surname. He began his professional career with FC Nantes, where he made a name for himself as a formidable defender. His successful stint with Olympique de Marseille saw him win the UEFA Champions League in 1993. He later joined AC Milan, where he continued to build on his success, winning another Champions League title in 1994. Desailly’s international career with the French national team is equally illustrious. He was a key part of the squad that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Euro 2000. Known for his exceptional tactical understanding, leadership qualities, and physical strength, Desailly was often referred to as “The Rock” by fans and commentators alike. After retiring from professional football, Desailly has worked as a football pundit and has been involved in various charitable activities. He is also a FIFA Ambassador.
5 Interesting Facts about Marcel Desailly
1. Marcel Desailly was born in Accra, Ghana but moved to France at the age of four.
2. He was adopted by a French diplomat, which led to his change of name from Odenke Abbey to Marcel Desailly.
3. Desailly is one of the few players to have won back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles with different clubs (Marseille in 1993 and AC Milan in 1994).
4. He captained the French national team after the retirement of Didier Deschamps.
5. Desailly has been awarded the French Legion of Honour, one of the country’s highest honors, for his contributions to football.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Marcel Desailly
1. “Football is a simple game. It’s just very hard to play it simply.”
2. “Playing in Italy has been a great learning experience for me. It’s a different style of football, and it has helped me grow as a player.”
3. “The World Cup victory in 1998 was not just a win for the team, it was a win for France. It united the nation.”
4. “Leadership on the field is about setting an example, being a role model for your teammates.”
5. “Retirement from football doesn’t mean the end of my involvement in the sport. There’s still so much to give back.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth achieved by Marcel Desailly is estimated to be around $12 million.
Children
Marcel Desailly has four children: two sons named Noah and Elijah, and two daughters named Laetitia and Melanie.
Relevant Links
1. [Marcel Desailly – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcel_Desailly
2. [Marcel Desailly profile – FIFA](https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/players/player/174507/
4. [Marcel Desailly – Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/marceldesaillyofficial/
5. [Marcel Desailly – Biography](https://www.biography.com/athlete/marcel-desailly
