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Bafetimbi GomisFrench footballer, striker
Date of Birth: 06.08.1985
Country:  France |
Content:
- Bafétimbi Gomis: A Talented Senegalese-French Striker
- Breakthrough at Saint-Étienne
- Joining Olympique Lyon
- International Career
Bafétimbi Gomis: A Talented Senegalese-French Striker
Early Life and CareerBafétimbi Gomis, born on August 6, 1985, in La Seyne-sur-Mer, France, is a French-Senegalese professional footballer who plays as a striker. He began his career with Saint-Étienne, where he made his debut in 2004, scoring twice in 13 appearances. The following season, he was loaned to Troyes AC, where he scored six goals, before returning to Saint-Étienne and scoring another six.
Breakthrough at Saint-Étienne
Despite a disappointing 2005-06 season, Gomis found his footing in the following year, scoring 10 goals in 30 games. In the 2007-08 season, his tally increased to 16 goals in 34 matches, attracting the attention of Newcastle United. However, Gomis opted to remain with Saint-Étienne, citing the club's manager as a key factor in his development.
Joining Olympique Lyon
Gomis continued to impress in the 2008-09 season, scoring five goals in 17 appearances. This led to a move to Olympique Lyon in July 2009, where he signed a five-year contract for a reported €13 million. Gomis has since enjoyed success with Lyon, averaging close to a goal every two games.
International Career
Despite being born in France, Gomis' Senegalese heritage made him eligible to represent either country. In 2008, he expressed his desire to play for France, and he was subsequently included in the preliminary squad for Euro 2008.
On May 27, Gomis made his international debut against Ecuador, scoring twice in the first 26 minutes, becoming only the second player after Zinedine Zidane to score a brace in his first appearance for France. He went on to earn several caps for Les Bleus, notably replacing Nicolas Anelka in a goalless draw against Romania in June 2008.
