Once celebrated for locking down elite strikers in La Liga and lifting the Champions League trophy with Barcelona, former French international Jeremy Mathieu is now grabbing headlines for something entirely different, and no, it’s not coaching or punditry.
Now 41, Mathieu made 91 appearances for FC Barcelona between 2014 and 2017, clinching two La Liga titles and the coveted 2015 UEFA Champions League under Luis Enrique. With over 100 career appearances at clubs like Valencia CF and Sporting CP, he was known for his no-nonsense defending and reliability on the pitch. His international career, albeit brief with five caps for France, was still a proud highlight for the towering center-back.
In 2020, Mathieu retired from professional football after a serious knee injury, with many expecting him to transition into a traditional post-football path, coaching, punditry, or even an executive role. But what he’s doing now? No one saw it coming.
Jeremy Mathieu Spotted Working in Sports Retail Store
A photo of Mathieu surfaced online recently and immediately went viral, garnering over 2 million views in just a few hours. In the image, Mathieu is seen posing with two co-workers at the Intersport Cabries – Plan de Campagne store, a major sports retailer in the Marseille region. Though some skeptics questioned the authenticity, fans quickly noticed his signature right-arm tattoo, confirming it was indeed him.
He’s not just posing for promo shots either. Mathieu is genuinely working at the store, advising customers and helping them choose their next pair of boots, yes, even helping aspiring footballers gear up to chase dreams he once lived.
Despite the shift in pace and prestige, it’s clear this isn’t about financial desperation. According to Mundo Deportivo, Mathieu’s move reflects his down-to-earth philosophy and desire to stay grounded post-retirement. It’s not a job out of necessity, it’s a conscious lifestyle choice.
Still Active on the Pitch
Interestingly, Mathieu hasn’t completely hung up his boots. He still plays for Luynes Sport FC, a regional side competing in Regional 1, close to Aix-en-Provence. His passion for the game remains as strong as ever, just channeled in a more grassroots, community-focused way.
From Champions League Glory to Humble Living
From shutting down Europe’s top forwards at the Camp Nou to fitting customers with shin guards and cleats, Jeremy Mathieu’s journey is a powerful reminder that not every football fairytale ends in punditry or coaching. Sometimes, it ends with a smile, a simple life, and staying close to the game in a completely unexpected way.
About The Author
