Samuel Umtiti sets sights on life in coaching after retirement

Samuel Umtiti has closed one chapter of his career but is already looking forward to the next.

Just days after announcing his retirement, the World Cup winner spoke about his dream of moving into management and his decision to start coaching courses.

At 31, Umtiti has decided to step away from playing after years of battling injuries that first struck in 2018, the same year he helped France lift football’s biggest prize. For many, retirement would mean time away from the spotlight, but Umtiti says the game is still where he belongs.

“I’m so passionate, I watch every match. I know I’ll be taking my badges in the coming weeks,” said the former France international.

“It will take a few years, but I need to learn and becoming a coach is the ultimate goal I’ll set myself.

Umtiti also noted that he has been studying managers he admires. “I have inspirations, and I’ll take a little bit from everyone.”