Bafétimbi Gomis established a formidable record in European football, notably securing his place in history as the scorer of one of the fastest hat-tricks in UEFA Champions League competition. Born in 1985 in La Seyne-sur-Mer, this French striker competed across top-flight leagues in France, England, and Turkey before concluding his professional career in 2024.
Early Career and Saint-Étienne
Gomis began his football journey within the youth ranks of Saint-Étienne, where he transitioned to the professional level in 2004. After gaining experience during a loan period at Troyes in Ligue 2, he returned to Saint-Étienne to become a vital part of the squad. His effectiveness as a goalscorer increased significantly between 2006 and 2008, culminating in a 16-goal performance during the 2007–08 season.
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In 2009, Gomis moved to Saint-Étienne’s arch-rivals, Lyon, for a fee of €13 million. During his five seasons at the Stade Gerland, he made 244 official appearances and netted 95 goals. In 2012, he helped the club secure both the Coupe de France and the Trophée des Champions. Notably, during the 2011–12 Champions League campaign, he scored four goals in a single match against Dinamo Zagreb.
International and Premier League Tenure
At the international level, Gomis earned 12 caps for the France national team between 2008 and 2013, scoring three goals and participating in the UEFA Euro 2008 squad. In 2014, he transferred to the Premier League, joining Swansea City on a free transfer. His stint in England included key goals against Manchester United, Arsenal, and Hull City.
Final European Campaigns
After a productive loan spell at Marseille, where he served as team captain under Rudi Garcia and scored 21 goals in 33 matches, Gomis moved to the Turkish league in 2017. Signing with Galatasaray, he became the league's top scorer with 29 goals in 33 games, leading the team to a Süper Lig title in 2018.
Fast facts
- Born: 1985, La Seyne-sur-Mer
- Citizenship: France; Senegal
- Professional debut: 2004
- Retirement: 2024
- France caps: 12
- Lyon goals: 95
- 2018 Süper Lig top scorer: Yes
Questions readers ask
Did Bafétimbi Gomis play for the France national team?
Yes, he made 12 appearances for France between 2008 and 2013 and was part of the squad for UEFA Euro 2008.
What record did Gomis set in the UEFA Champions League?
He previously held the record for the fastest hat-trick in the history of the UEFA Champions League, achieved during a match against Dinamo Zagreb.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
