Bafetimbi Gomis (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
French striker Bafetimbi Gomis announces his retirement at 39, marking the end of a prolific career. Gomis chose the Lyon vs. Saint-Étienne derby day to share his decision.
Bafetimbi Gomis has officially retired from professional football, marking the end of a long and storied career. The 39-year-old French striker chose a particularly meaningful day to announce his decision—just before the derby match between Olympique Lyon and Saint-Étienne, two clubs where he spent key parts of his career.
Gomis made the announcement on DAZN, saying, "I chose this symbolic day, just before the match between the two clubs where I grew up, to announce my decision."
After finishing his time with Kawasaki Frontale at the end of last season, Gomis had been without a club. Rather than delay the inevitable, he decided it was the right moment to formally say goodbye to his professional playing days.
Starting his career with Saint-Étienne, Gomis scored 49 goals in 165 matches. He then went on to play for Lyon, where he recorded 95 goals in 244 appearances. His memorable "panther" celebrations after each goal made him a fan favorite and left a lasting legacy.
Beyond his time at Lyon and Saint-Étienne, Gomis also played for Troyes, Swansea City, Marseille, Galatasaray, Al Hilal, and Kawasaki Frontale. Over his entire club career, he notched up 347 goals and 75 assists in 783 matches. Gomis also represented France internationally, earning 12 caps and scoring three goals.
With his career now at an end, Gomis will be remembered as a prolific striker whose unique celebrations and scoring ability made him an unforgettable figure in football.