Steve Mandanda

Steve Mandanda (born 28 March 1985 in Kinshasa) is a Congolese-born French professional football player who plays as a goalkeeper for French club Olympique de Marseille in Ligue 1. He currently serves as first-choice captain of Marseille. Mandanda is also a French international and has represented his nation at two international tournaments; UEFA Euro 2008 and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Football career

Le Havre

Mandanda made his league début for Le Havre in August 2005, only conceding his first goal in his fourth match. He played 30 league matches in the 2005–06 season and 37 in 2006–07, with his performances attracting the attention of other clubs. Following an unsuccessful trial at Aston Villa prior to the 2007–08 season, he joined Marseille in summer 2007.

Olympique de Marseille

At the start of his first season with Marseille, Mandanda was regarded as an understudy to first choice keeper Cédric Carrasso. However a knee injury ruled Carrasso out for six months, leaving the way clear for Mandanda to become a regular fixture in Ligue 1, Champions League and UEFA Cup matches.

On 5 March 2008, Mandanda joined Marseille on a permanent four year contract. However, his strong performances have led to rumours about moves to England and Italy with clubs such as city rivals Manchester United and Manchester City and also AC Milan.

International career

Mandanda has won a number of caps for the France national under-21 football team and was named...
Read More