Gael Clichy Biography

Gael Clichy biography from http://www.contacttheplayers.com

Gael Clichy plays for the France national side and Arsenal in the English Premier League. He is a left-back or left wing-back, with his attacking football philosophy ensuring he gets forward at every available opportunity. Following years as Ashley Cole’s understudy, Clichy has made the position his own, and competes with Manchester United’s Patrice Evra for the left-back spot for France’s national side.

Clichy signed for Arsenal in July 2003, with Arsene Wenger convinced enough about the young defender he had seen in Cannes reserves that he paid around £500,000 for him. Aged just 18, Clichy was the understudy to Ashley Cole, who was in his prime. The two players had a very similar, attacking, game, so Clichy was able to learn from one of the very best in his position from an early age.

After three seasons as understudy, Clichy became the first team left-back when Ashley Cole left in a cloud to join Chelsea. He took over where Cole left off, and hardly any Arsenal supporters were able to tell the difference, which is testament to Clichy’s game. He is now one of the regular Arsenal back-four, and perhaps the most dependable. He scored his first goal for Arsenal on 1st November 2008, after over 5 years at the club, against Stoke.