Friday, 7th June, 2013
Eric Abidal has targeted two of his former clubs as possible destinations for his future, following his departure from Barcelona.
The Frenchman ended a six-year association with Spanish champions in an emotional press conference last month, whilst declining Barclona’s offer of an ambassadorial role at the club.
Abidal’s battle through a liver tumour was well documented, but having had two surgeries and recovering well enough to make his Barcelona return, he feels ready for a new challenge.
Waiting in earnest could be Monaco and Lyon, his previous employers, whilst there has been interest from Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain as well.
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When asked if he would like to finish his career in the country where it started, Abidal told Radio Monte Carlo: "It would be nice. There are many clubs interested in me.
"I want to play but I do not know where. It could be Monaco or I could face a greater challenge with another team that plays in the Champions League, so there is an opportunity going back to Lyon can also be an opportunity."
Abidal’s two-year spell at Monaco came to an end in 2002 when he moved to Lille, who then saw him leave for Lyon in 2004.
Monaco’s recent resurgence has seen a flurry of signings, and Abidal admitted he was excited at their ambitions for the future.
He added: "In relation to their recruitment, it has been enormous. At my age, I do not look at the position I’m playing.
"The coaches know me there and Monaco can make a big team for next season and aim for the top spots.
"For me, it may be a good challenge, and thus I would be able to close the loop which started when I moved there at 19-and-a-half-years old."
On the interest from PSG, whose owner had previously told him "you can count on me for anything", Abidal again remained noncommittal.
"Even if I get along with Nasser Al-Khelaïfi he has not told me to play in his team", Abidal said. "But if I talk with him, maybe yes."
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