MARCEL DESAILLY
Marcel Desailly
Nicknamed "The Rock" during his playing career, Marcel is considered one of the most accomplished footballers of his generation, and one of the finest French defenders. Marcel was noted for his leadership skills and in 2004, he was named by Pele in the FIFA 100 as one of the world's greatest living players.
Marcel was born in Accra, Ghana on September 7th 1968 and moved to France when he was just 4 years old. Starting his football career in Nantes, where he now lives, he moved to Olympique de Marseille and then A.C. Milan where he won the UEFA Champions League with both. When Marcel moved to Chelsea in 1998, he went on to be their Captain and became an instant fan favourite. After leaving Chelsea, he moved to Qatar in 2004 where he represented Al-Gharafa and Qatar S.C. before retiring from professional football.
On the International stage he was a star of the French national football team squad, with whom he won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. He also was made captain and led them to victory in the 2001 Confederations Cup. In April 2003, Marcel surpassed the record for the number of appearances for the French national team, a number which eventually reached 116 when he announced his retirement from international football following the Euro 2004.
Broadcast contracts. Marcel is a very personable, confident, intelligent and charismatic football analyst. Speaking 4 languages (French, English, Italian and Ghanaian) allows Marcel to present on networks internationally. This combined with his experience captaining some of the top teams in the game and winning the biggest competitions (World Cup, Champions League, FA Cup, Serie A) have enabled him to talk with credibility and confidence.
Marcel currently has a worldwide contract as one of BeIn Sports' most important pundits. He has worked with many channels including Canal+, ITV 1 and Turkish TV and has provided analysis for the most recent major competitions, including FIFA World Cup 2010 and UEFA EURO 2012 and the 2014 World Cup for SuperSport in South Africa.
Corporate and Ambassadorial Roles. There is a huge demand for this hardworking, charismatic, professional Legend, who always gives his utmost to deliver for sponsors and brands. He works with UEFA and their partners and is preparing for this years’ Euros, which of course will be held in his homeland.
He has many current Ambassadorial roles with companies such as Betclic. And since we have been working together he has become an Ambassador for a new perfume 'Scent of Africa' and an Aviation Company. Marcel has also worked recently with banks, beer and soft drink companies and many other high-end companies throughout the world.
Initiatives and Charity. Since 2005 Marcel has been a devoted and committed Laureus Academy member and Orphan Aid Africa Lifetime Ambassador to Ghana and France. He travels worldwide to visit projects and raise their profile. In 2011, to support coaching to youth footballers, he set up a sports facility in Ghana - Lizzy Sports Complex - in memory of his late mother, geared to young players and children in particular. Many African National teams use the centre to camp and prepare for international tournaments.
Speaking and Hosting. Marcel travels worldwide to talk of his experiences, support brands and motivate, and although he prefers a moderator, he is becoming increasingly confident delivering keynote speeches in any of his four languages.
Football Management. Marcel is a qualified football coach and has every intention of entering management at some point. He has had several offers of management and, after his commitments with the Euros 2016, his experience on the field and excellent leadership skills will no doubt lead him in this direction.
CLUBS PLAYED FOR
- France, 116 caps (51 captain)
- - Nantes, 164 caps
- - Marseille, 57 caps
- - AC Milan, 164 caps
- - Chelsea, 222 caps (94 captain)
- - Al-Gharafa, 28 caps
ACHIEVEMENTS
- World Cup 1998
- - European Championship 2000
- - Confederations Cup 2001, 2003
- - Champions League 1993, 1994
- - European Super Cup 1994, 1998
- - FA Cup 2000
- - Charity Shield 2000
- - Serie A 1994, 1996