Jonathan Zebina Joins Arles-Avignon, Rules Out Retirement at 36
Veteran defender Jonathan Zebina has joined French side Arles-Avignon, the club confirmed, as he continues his professional career at the age of 36.
The former Juventus and AS Roma player, who was released by Toulouse at the end of last season, becomes the second Ligue 1-calibre signing for Arles-Avignon this campaign, following Mamadou Niang. Zebina, who has also featured for Brest during his career in France, has signed on with the Ligue 2 outfit as they look to stabilise their season after a difficult start.
Speaking on the club’s official website, the Martinique-born defender made it clear that retirement is not yet on his mind.
“My motivation hasn’t changed since the first conversations with the club,” Zebina said. “The team is in a tough period, but it’s only the start of the season. It’s just a matter of adapting.”
Zebina, who brings more than 15 years of experience from top-flight football in France and Italy, said he remains fully committed to the team’s objectives and is eager to return to full match fitness.
“I’m here to serve the squad, the club and the coaching staff. I’ll do my best to be ready as soon as possible,” he added. “I’ve been training with a personal coach. I never intended to stop playing football.”
He will wear the number 15 shirt at Arles, where his arrival is expected to bring stability and leadership to a side looking to climb the Ligue 2 table. Known for his calm defensive presence and experience at the highest level, Zebina could prove a vital addition for ACA as they look to strengthen their back line.
Zebina began his professional career with Cannes before moving to Cagliari and then establishing himself in Italy with stints at Roma and Juventus, where he played under legendary coaches and alongside some of Europe’s elite. His return to French football in recent years included roles at Brest and Toulouse, bringing his career full circle back to domestic competition.
As Arles-Avignon seek to regroup and find consistency, Zebina’s signing is seen as both a short-term boost and a symbol of ambition from a club eager to make progress. While the team currently faces challenges on the pitch, the arrival of a player with Zebina’s pedigree could serve as a turning point.
Despite being well into the twilight years of his career, Zebina insists the passion remains. “Football is what I love,” he said simply. “I never wanted to stop.”
