Introduction
Aly Cissokho is a retired French-born Senegalese professional footballer who spent most of his career playing as a left-back in various clubs across Europe. He played for big teams like Liverpool, Olympique Lyonnais, and Valencia. Cissokho was known for his pace, hard work, and ability to deliver accurate crosses. However, despite his popularity, there are some fascinating facts about Aly Cissokho that you might have missed. In this blog post, we discuss six such unique facts about the former footballer.
6 Fascinating Facts About Aly Cissokho You Didn’t Know!
1. Born in Blois, France
Cissokho was born on September 15, 1987, in Blois, France, to Senegalese parents. He grew up in France and started his football career with local clubs before moving to Portugal to join Vitória de Setúbal.
2. Started his career as a striker
Football enthusiasts know Aly Cissokho as a left-back. However, he started his career as a striker before being converted to a full-back by his youth team coach. Cissokho played for a few years as a striker before eventually finding his calling as a left-back.
3. Nicknamed “Kiss”
Cissokho’s full name is Aly Cissokho Seco. However, he is popularly called “Kiss” by his fans and colleagues. The nickname was given to him during his early days at FC Gueugnon, where his teammates used to struggle to pronounce his last name correctly.
4. Played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in a charity game
In 2013, Aly Cissokho played for a team of French players that took on a team comprising international stars in a charity match organized by Zinedine Zidane. Cissokho’s team included the likes of Thierry Henry, Robert Pires, and Claude Makelele, while the star-studded opposition had Cristiano Ronaldo, Fabio Cannavaro, and Diego Maradona.
5. Accomplished artist
Aside from football, Aly Cissokho is also a talented artist. He loves to draw and paint and has showcased some of his works on social media platforms. Cissokho has even sold some of his artworks for charity.
6. Fascinated by Ancient Egypt
Aly Cissokho is fascinated by the mysteries and history of Ancient Egypt. He has visited Egypt several times and has even gotten an image of King Tutankhamun tattooed on his arm.
FAQs
Q1. Did Aly Cissokho win any major trophy during his career?
A1. Aly Cissokho won the Europa League with FC Porto in 2011 and the Copa del Rey with Valencia in 2019.
Q2. What was the peak of Aly Cissokho’s career?
A2. Aly Cissokho’s peak came during his time at Olympique Lyonnais, where he played a key role in the club’s Ligue 1 title win in 2008.
Q3. What made Aly Cissokho standout among other left-backs?
A3. Aly Cissokho stood out among other left-backs due to his speed, accurate crosses, and excellent defensive skills.
Q4. Which was Aly Cissokho’s most memorable game in his career?
A4. Aly Cissokho’s most memorable game was arguably the Europa League final in 2011, where he played a crucial part in FC Porto’s victory against Braga.
Q5. Did Aly Cissokho retire recently?
A5. Yes, Aly Cissokho announced his retirement from professional football in 2021.
Q6. Does Aly Cissokho support any football club?
A6. Aly Cissokho has always been a fan of Olympique Marseille and has expressed his desire to play for the club several times.
Q7. Why did Aly Cissokho convert to a left-back?
A7. Aly Cissokho converted to a left-back after his youth team coach noticed his pace and work rate, which would prove to be more effective in the left-back position.
Conclusion
Aly Cissokho’s football career might have come to an end, but his legacy and unique personality will always remain. These six fascinating facts highlight the different sides of the former footballer, from his artistic skills to his fascination with Ancient Egypt. Aly Cissokho will always be remembered for his contribution to football, and his fans will continue to appreciate his talent and unique character.