Nicolas Anelka Eligible for Premier League Return After Completing FA Sanctions
At 35 years old, Nicolas Anelka has not officially retired and may be eyeing a final challenge in his storied yet turbulent career. After a brief stint with Mumbai City FC, the former France international could potentially return to the Premier League.
According to Sky Sports, Anelka has now completed all disciplinary requirements handed down by the English FA. This includes a five-match suspension, a €100,000 fine, and participation in an educational training program — all imposed for his controversial “quenelle” gesture made in December 2013 during his time at West Bromwich Albion. The gesture, widely interpreted as anti-Semitic and linked to French comedian Dieudonné, led to significant backlash and his eventual departure from English football.
With the sanctions behind him, Anelka is now free to sign for any club, including those in the Premier League. However, the real question is whether any club will be willing to take the risk on a player who, despite his undeniable talent and rich experience (Arsenal, Real Madrid, PSG, Chelsea, and others), has often found himself at the center of controversy throughout his career.
If he does return, it would mark yet another chapter in what has been one of the most unpredictable and globe-trotting careers in modern football.
