21 July 2014
Patrice Evra’s glittering CV is indicative of his reputation as one of Europe’s best left-backs.
Born in Dakar, Senegal on 15 May 1981, he and his family moved to France when Evra was very young.
After joining his hometown club CO Les Ulis, Evra progressed through the youth ranks at three different French clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, before beginning his professional career in Italy and Serie C1 with Marsala.
It only took a season of good performances at the Sicilian club before Monza came calling and Evra made the step-up to Serie B.
In search of more regular first team football, the Frenchman returned to his homeland at the turn of the millennium when Nice decided to acquire his services for two seasons before he crossed the divide to join rivals AS Monaco managed by ex-Juventus coach, Didier Deschamps.
Patrice established himself as one of Ligue 1’s best defenders during his four-year stint at the Stade Louis II, where he featured in the French club’s remarkable Champions League run in 2004 as well as being made vice-captain at the tender age of 22.
After making over 200 appearances in French football, Evra was signed by Premier League giants Manchester United in January 2006 and went on to appear 379 times in all competitions, scoring 10 goals.
His warrior-like performances, in particular during the latter stages of his career at Old Trafford, saw him stand in as captain on many occasions for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, highlighting Evra’s strength as a natural born leader.
During his time at the Red Devils, Patrice won the Premier League on five separate occasions as well as three League Cups, five FA Community Shields, one UEFA Champions League and a FIFA Club World Cup.
On a personal level, Evra was named in the coveted PFA Premier League Team of the Year three times and was included in UEFA's equivalent in 2009.
The Frenchman has appeared at four major international tournaments and captained his country during World Cup 2010 in South Africa. He has represented Les Bleus 62 times, only ten appearances less than Juventus and France legend Michel Platini.
His domestic and international pedrigree will be invaluable to Massimiliano Allegri as he seeks to maintain Juventus' Serie A dominance whilst making further progress in Europe.
