Michel Platini's international career with the French national team was equally distinguished. He first represented France in the 1976 Olympics, although the team was eliminated in the group stage. In the 1982 FIFA World Cup, he played a pivotal role in leading France to the semifinals, where they lost to West Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout. Platini has described this match as one of the most memorable moments of his international career.
His greatest international triumph came in 1984, when he captained France to victory in the UEFA European Championship. He was instrumental throughout the tournament, scoring nine goals—a record for a single Euro campaign that still stands.
Following his retirement from professional play in 1987, Platini transitioned into coaching and football administration. He served as the head coach of the French national team from 1988 to 1992. Although his tenure as coach did not result in significant success, it marked the beginning of his move into football governance.
In 2007, Platini was elected President of UEFA, the governing body for European football, after previously holding roles within both UEFA and FIFA. He served in that position until 2015, initiating reforms and changes aimed at balancing club competition across Europe. His presidency focused on financial fair play and reforming the UEFA Champions League structure.
Platini's career in football administration came to an abrupt halt due to a financial scandal. In 2015, he was banned from football-related activities after being found guilty of receiving an improper payment of $2 million from then-FIFA President Sepp Blatter. Although Platini argued the payment was for consultancy work, the lack of written documentation led to his suspension by FIFA's ethics committee.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport upheld the decision, resulting in a multi-year ban from all football administration roles. Platini has continually denied any wrongdoing and has stated his intention to clear his name.
Michel Platini is married to Christelle Platini, and they reside in France with their family. Widely regarded as one of the greatest French footballers of all time, he remains a significant figure in the history of European football. Despite controversies later in his career, his contributions as a player and administrator have left a lasting impact on the sport.
His exact net worth and salary figures remain undisclosed, but his long and successful career in football—both on and off the pitch—have made him a wealthy and influential figure in the sport's history.
Return to the previous page| Birth Date: | 21 Jun, 1955 |
| Age: | 64 yrs |
| Citizenship: | France |
| Birth Place: | Jœuf |
| Gender: | Male |
| Description: | French association football player, manager and executive |
| Net Worth 2021: | 15 million |
