From Champions League to Checkout: Jeremy Mathieu’s Unexpected Career Shift

Jeremy Mathieu, former FC Barcelona defender and Champions League winner, has gone viral for an unexpected reason. At 41, the retired French footballer has taken up a surprising new role—working as a retail associate at a sports store in France.

Mathieu joined Barça in the 2014–2015 season, after transferring from Valencia at the request of coach Luis Enrique. Though not always a starter, he played a reliable supporting role in the club’s treble-winning campaign—clinching La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.

Now, a decade later, he’s made headlines again—not for his on-pitch achievements, but for his humble and grounded life post-retirement. According to L’Équipe, Mathieu works at an Intersport branch between Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, where he oversees the football section. Images of him wearing an employee vest with his name have gone viral, prompting fans to flock to the store just to meet him.

This past Saturday, he became the main attraction, with numerous customers taking photos and sharing the moment online. It’s a testament to how beloved he remains, especially among Barcelona and French football fans.

Despite moving away from elite football, Mathieu hasn’t left the sport entirely. He is currently pursuing coaching qualifications, continuing to share his experience and passion with the next generation.

Jeremy Mathieu’s journey is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t end with retirement—and that new chapters, no matter how unexpected, can be just as fulfilling.