What became of… Kanouté

Previously: Frédéric Oumar Kanouté (Sainte-Foy-lès, Lyon, France, 2 September 1977) was a Malian player with dual French citizenship who rose through the ranks of the Olympique Lyonnais youth academy, a club he remained with until 2000. Following spells with West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur FC in the English Premier League, he moved to Sevilla FC, where he became a true legend in the eyes of the fans during his seven years at the club. He was part of the Andalusian side’s golden age, picking up numerous titles and notched up over 100 goals.

His achievements: All the titles Kanouté lifting during his footballing career came while with Sevilla. His trophy cabinet consists of two UEFA Cups, won in 2006 and 2007, a European Super Cup, a Spanish Super Cup and two Copa del Rey titles in 2007 and 2010, his last ever title. He was also named the best African player of the year in 2007.

After hanging up his boots: He announced his retirement in 2013 following a two-season-long spell with Chinese side Beijing Guoan FC. He created the 'Fundación Kanouté' on the outskirts of Bamaco, the Malian capital, in order to set up the project entitled 'Ciudad de los niños' (City of the children), which provides children in need with basic resources.

Did you know?: He has played more games for Sevilla than any other foreign player, having made 287 appearances for the club. He also holds the Sevilla record for being the most lethal non-Spanish forward of all time, with 135 goals to his name. He managed to score in every final he featured in with the Andalusians with the exception of the UEFA European Super Cup title decider.