Joël Bats Profile

Joel Bats is a former French professional footballer who is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers to have ever played the game. Born on January 4, 1957, in Montargis, France, Bats began his professional career at Auxerre in 1975, where he quickly established himself as one of the most promising young talents in French football. Over the course of his career, Bats played for several top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Bordeaux, and Olympique Lyonnais, among others.

Bats' playing style was characterized by his exceptional reflexes, lightning-quick reactions, and his incredible shot-stopping ability. He was also known for his commanding presence in the penalty area and his ability to organize and motivate his defence. These attributes made him one of the most feared goalkeepers in Europe during his prime.

One of the most significant moments in Bats' career came in the 1984 European Championship final between France and Spain. With the match tied 1-1 after extra time, Bats made two crucial saves in the penalty shootout to secure victory for France. His performance earned him the nickname "the octopus" among French fans and cemented his place in French football history.

Bats also enjoyed a successful club career, winning several major honours with Bordeaux and PSG, including two French league titles and a UEFA Cup. He spent a significant portion of his career at Lyon, where he played a pivotal role in their success during the 1990s, winning four league titles and two French cups.

Bats' influence on French football extends beyond his playing career. He has worked as a goalkeeper coach for the French national team, helping to develop some of the best goalkeepers in the world, including Hugo Lloris and Alphonse Areola. He has also worked with several top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, and Olympique Lyonnais, helping to develop some of the best goalkeepers in the game.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to French football, Bats was awarded the French Football Federation's highest honour, the Legion of Honour, in 2016. The award was a fitting tribute to a player who had dedicated his life to the game and had helped to shape the careers of many young players.

In conclusion, Joel Bats was one of the most talented goalkeepers to have ever played the game. His incredible reflexes, lightning-quick reactions, and shot-stopping ability made him a formidable opponent for any striker. He was also a leader on and off the pitch, motivating and organizing his defence to great effect. His achievements as a player and coach have left an indelible mark on French football and inspired countless young players to pursue their dreams.