Jeremy Mathieu Biography: Age, Wife, Career Stats, Clubs, & Net Worth

Jeremy Mathieu is a retired French professional footballer best known for his time at FC Barcelona, Valencia CF, and Sporting CP. A versatile defender capable of playing as a center-back and left-back, Mathieu enjoyed a successful career spanning over 15 years, winning major trophies in France and Spain.

Full NameJérémy Mathieu
Date of BirthOctober 29, 1983
Age (as of 2024)40 years old
Place of BirthLuxeuil-les-Bains, France
Height1.89 m (6 ft 2 in)
PositionCenter-back / Left-back
WifeLorena Mathieu (married in 2014)
ChildrenTwo (names not publicly disclosed)
Retirement DateJuly 2020
Social MediaInstagram: @jeremymathieuofficial

Mathieu grew up in Luxeuil-les-Bains, a small town in northeastern France. He joined FC Sochaux’s youth academy at a young age, where he developed his skills as a left-back and center-back.

Youth Career Highlights

  • Joined FC Sochaux’s academy in the late 1990s.
  • Progressed through the ranks due to his physicality, speed, and defensive awareness.
  • Made his professional debut in 2002 under coach Guy Lacombe.

Club Career: From Sochaux to Barcelona

1. FC Sochaux (2002–2009)

Mathieu’s professional career began at FC Sochaux, where he quickly became a key player.

  • Debut: 2002 in Ligue 1.
  • Key Achievements:
    • Won the Coupe de la Ligue (2004).
    • Played 189 matches, scoring 5 goals.
    • Known for his versatility, pace, and strong tackles.

2. Toulouse FC (2009–2014)

In 2009, Mathieu moved to Toulouse FC for around €4.5 million, where he further established himself as one of Ligue 1’s best defenders.

  • Played 177 matches, scoring 8 goals.
  • Became team captain, known for his leadership.
  • Attracted interest from top European clubs, including Valencia and Arsenal.

3. Valencia CF (2014–2017)

In 2014, Mathieu made a €20 million move to Valencia CF, where he became a fan favorite.

  • Played 87 matches, scoring 6 goals.
  • Key player in Valencia’s defense, helping them secure Champions League qualification.
  • Left in 2017 after financial struggles at Valencia.

4. FC Barcelona (2014–2017) – The Peak of His Career

In a surprise move, Barcelona signed Mathieu for €20 million in 2014 as defensive cover.

  • Played alongside Piqué, Mascherano, and Alba.
  • Key Contributions:
    • Won 2 La Liga titles (2015, 2016).
    • Won the Champions League (2015) under Luis Enrique.
    • Scored a crucial goal against Real Madrid in El Clásico (2015).
  • Left in 2017 due to injuries and competition for places.

5. Sporting CP (2017–2020) – Final Years & Retirement

Mathieu joined Sporting CP in 2017, where he played until his retirement in 2020.

  • Played 77 matches, scoring 6 goals.
  • Won the Taça da Liga (2018, 2019).
  • Retired in July 2020 at age 36.

International Career (France National Team)

Despite his club success, Mathieu had a limited international career due to injuries and competition.

  • Debut: 2011 under Laurent Blanc.
  • Total Caps: 5 (no goals).
  • Missed Euro 2016 due to injury.

Personal Life: Wife, Children, and Lifestyle

Mathieu is known for keeping his personal life private, but some details are known:

Marriage & Family

  • Wife: Lorena Mathieu (married in 2014).
  • Children: Two (names not publicly disclosed).
  • The couple prefers a low-profile lifestyle, rarely appearing in media.

Post-Retirement Life

Since retiring in 2020, Mathieu has:

  • Stayed involved in football punditry.
  • Engaged in charity work, supporting children’s foundations.
  • Enjoys traveling with his family.

Legacy & Playing Style

Strengths as a Player

  • Versatility (CB, LB, even CDM).
  • Aerial dominance (strong in set-pieces).
  • Composure under pressure.
  • Leadership on and off the pitch.

Trophies & Honors

  • Champions League (2015 – Barcelona).
  • 2x La Liga (2015, 2016 – Barcelona).
  • 2x Copa del Rey (2015, 2016 – Barcelona).
  • Coupe de la Ligue (2004 – Sochaux).
  • 2x Taça da Liga (2018, 2019 – Sporting CP).

Conclusion

Jeremy Mathieu had a successful and underrated career, playing for some of Europe’s biggest clubs. While injuries limited his international impact, his contributions at Barcelona and Valencia remain memorable.

Post-retirement, he enjoys a quiet family life, occasionally appearing in football-related events. His defensive intelligence and versatility make him one of the most underappreciated defenders of his generation.