Alban Lafont

Alban Lafont made his professional debut for Toulouse FC in Ligue 1 on November 28, 2015, at just 16 years of age. He became the youngest ever goalkeeper to debut in Ligue 1. His first match was against Nice and it ended in a 2-0 victory for Toulouse, with Lafont keeping a clean sheet. This impressive start marked him out as a rising star in French football, and he was soon recognized as one of the top young talents in European football.

For the 2016-2017 season, Alban Lafont was named in the UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Season after an outstanding campaign with Toulouse FC. His performances in goal were critical in helping Toulouse maintain their Ligue 1 status. Lafont's remarkable reflexes, command of the area, and leadership in a youthful Toulouse side won him plaudits and further interest from top clubs around Europe.

Alban Lafont transferred from Toulouse FC to Fiorentina in the Italian Serie A on 2 July 2018 for a fee reported to be around 8.5 million euros. Fiorentina sought a new starting goalkeeper after the departure of Marco Sportiello, and Lafont was seen as the perfect candidate due to his impressive showings in France. Lafont quickly adapted to Italian football, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure.

After initially joining FC Nantes on loan from Fiorentina in the 2019-2020 season, Alban Lafont's move was made permanent on May 27, 2020. He was a regular starter during his loan spell, helping the team with his consistent performances and notable clearances under pressure. Nantes decided to exercise the option to buy Lafont for 7.5 million euros, making him their first-choice keeper for upcoming seasons.

Alban Lafont was named the captain of FC Nantes on March 21, 2021. This decision came after his consistent leadership at the back and his influence on the team both on and off the pitch. As captain, Lafont led by example through his vocal direction, crucial saves, and strategic understanding of the game. His leadership was a significant factor in Nantes' fight against relegation.

Alban Lafont received his first call-up to the senior France national football team on February 1, 2022. Although he had previously represented France at various youth levels, this selection marked his entrance into the competitive pool for the senior squad. His call-up was a testament to his high level of play and consistency with FC Nantes and was viewed as a potential long-term goalkeeping option for Les Bleus.

Alban Lafont played a pivotal role in FC Nantes' journey to victory in the 2022-2023 Coupe de France. In the final on April 29, 2023, Nantes faced Nice and emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, securing their first Coupe de France title in over two decades. Lafont's incredible reflexes and shot-stopping ability were on full display throughout the tournament, earning him widespread acclaim and further solidifying his reputation.

As of June 15, 2023, Alban Lafont was at the center of transfer speculation, with several top European clubs expressing interest in the talented goalkeeper. Reports suggested that clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, AC Milan, and Borussia Dortmund were keen to acquire his services. Lafont's consistent performances with Nantes and his status as a top French talent made him one of the most coveted goalkeepers in the transfer market.

On August 4, 2023, Alban Lafont was heavily linked with a transfer to AC Milan as the club searched for a new first-choice goalkeeper. Discussions between Milan and Nantes were reportedly in advanced stages, with the Italian giants aiming to fill the gap left by an outgoing keeper. Lafont's pedigree and adaptability were highlighted as reasons for Milan's interest, sparking excitement among fans about the potential deal.

As of October 1, 2023, Alban Lafont claimed the record for the most clean sheets kept in a single Ligue 1 season by an FC Nantes goalkeeper. His remarkable achievement was a testament to his stellar performances throughout the season as he repeatedly thwarted opposing attackers with his excellent positioning, shot-blocking, and composure under pressure. His effort secured FC Nantes' strong finish in the league standings.