Wednesday, 12th June, 2013
Former Barcelona defender Eric Abidal would be welcomed back to the French league with open arms if he chooses his old haunting grounds over the lure of European champions Bayern Munich.
Abidal’s contract at Barcelona came to an end this summer, with the 33-year-old opting not to take on an ambassadorial role there.
He has expressed a desire to continue playing as long as his health permits – having undergone two surgeries for a liver tumour – and recently indicated he could move to either of his former clubs in Monaco and Lyon.
However, the attraction of reuniting with his old boss in Pep Guardiola could show a change of heart towards Bayern Munich, who completed a historic treble this season.
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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.
And the principality club’s sporting director Vadim Vasilyev insists nothing would be better for the Frenchman than a return to native pastures.
He told L’Equipe: "This is a player who is a strong man. And if he could return to Ligue 1, I think all of French football would be happy."
Big-spending Monaco would find it tough going, though, with Abidal known for a taste towards the big competitions, and with both Lyon and Bayern Munich playing in the Champions League next season, it could prove a key factor.
Indeed, whilst answering questions on Monday over a possible Bayern Munich stint, Abidal told Telefoot: "I would sign for Bayern [if given the opportunity].
"Guardiola knows my situation. I would love to be part of his plans. I still don’t know anything specific, but Bayern would definitely be a great choice."
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