Michel Platini

Michel Platini was born on June 21, 1955, in Jœuf, France. He is widely considered as one of the finest footballers of all time. Platini began his professional career with AS Nancy-Lorraine before moving to Saint-Étienne, where he won the French league title. He then moved to Juventus, winning multiple titles including two Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League.

Platini is known for his exceptional skill, vision, goal-scoring ability, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including three Ballon d'Or titles, and holds multiple records, such as the most goals in a single European Championship tournament.

Off the field, Platini served as the president of UEFA and contributed significantly to the development of football.

AS Nancy-Lorraine

• Youth and Early Career: Platini began his career with AS Nancy, making his first-team debut in 1972.

Saint-Étienne

• Success and Recognition: Platini moved to Saint-Étienne in 1979, leading the club to the French league title in 1981.

Juventus

• Peak of Career: In 1982, Platini transferred to Juventus, where he won two Serie A titles, a UEFA Champions League title, and all of his three Ballon d'Or awards.

France National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for France in 1976.

Achievements:

• UEFA European Championship: Winner in 1984, also served as the tournament's top scorer.
  Platini is one of France's all-time top scorers and is widely recognized for his crucial role in the team's success during the 1980s.

• Position: Primarily an attacking midfielder, but also excelled as a forward.
• Skills: Known for his exceptional vision, precise passing, goal-scoring ability, and free-kick prowess. Platini was celebrated for his intelligence on the pitch, technical skills, and leadership.

• Family: Platini is married to Christelle Platini and has two children.
• Post-Retirement: After retiring from playing, Platini turned to football administration, serving as the president of UEFA from 2007 to 2015.

• Michel Platini is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records, but also for his intelligence, vision, and influence on the game. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pitch, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Goals in a Single European Championship:

• 9 goals in 1984

Most Goals for Juventus in a Single Season:

• 20 goals in 1983-84 season

Most Appearances and Goals for France:

• 72 appearances and 41 goals

Books

• Platini, M. (1987) Ma vie en bleu. Paris: Calmann-Levy.
• Platini, M. (2007) Parlons Football. Paris: Calmann-Levy.

Websites

• FIFA: Information about Michel Platini’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fifa.com
• Juventus: Details about Platini’s career at Juventus. Available at: https://www.juventus.com
• UEFA: Updates and records of Platini in UEFA competitions. Available at: https://www.uefa.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Michel Platini: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football
• The Guardian: Michel Platini’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/football/michel-platini

Interviews and Documentaries

• Platini (2019): Directed by Yann L'Hénoret. This documentary provides a detailed look at Platini’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Michel Platini, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com