Florent Malouda, the former Chelsea winger and 2012 Champions League winner, has embarked on an unexpected new chapter in his life, joining the French military in French Guiana. At 44 years old, Malouda has transitioned from his successful football career to serving in the 3rd Forest Infantry Regiment’s citizens’ reserve.
The former French international, who spent six seasons at Stamford Bridge and played 80 times for France, recently shared a series of images from his military training in the Amazon rainforest. He was seen wearing military gear and engaging in rigorous training exercises, a striking departure from his days on the football pitch.
Malouda, who hails from French Guiana, expressed his deep connection to the region in his Instagram post. “While passing through the Amazon in my home territory, I was able to follow an initiation during the CEFE Authorities course of the 3rd REI at the Equatorial Forest Training Center,” he wrote, adding that the experience allowed him to embrace values such as team spirit and resilience in the face of adversity—principles he believes are integral to both military service and high-level sports.
The French government’s citizens’ reserve program allows civilians, often distinguished in their respective fields, to contribute to the military without being formal personnel. Malouda’s decision to join the regiment is a reflection of his commitment to his roots and desire to give back to his community.
During his illustrious football career, Malouda won 12 major trophies, including the Premier League and the FA Cup, in addition to his Champions League victory with Chelsea in 2012. However, his departure from the club was marred by a lack of playing time in his final season, leading to an unsatisfying end to his Stamford Bridge tenure. Despite this, Malouda remains fond of the club, even recently posting a photo of himself wearing this season’s Chelsea away kit.
Malouda retired from professional football in 2018, following a stint with Luxembourg’s FC Differdange 03. Now, he is embracing a new life as a soldier, continuing to inspire through his dedication to discipline, service, and leadership.
