A 1999 PFA Players' Player of the Year award marked the career of David Ginola, who became the first footballer to receive this accolade while playing for a club finishing outside the top four. His professional trajectory spanned seventeen years, moving from French regional beginnings to significant prominence within the English Premier League.
French League Development
Born in Gassin on 25 January 1967, Ginola began his senior career with Sporting Toulon at age eighteen. Following a move to Racing Paris in 1988 and a subsequent stint with Brest, he transitioned to Paris Saint-Germain in 1992. During his tenure in Paris, he won the 1992–93 Coupe de France and the 1993–94 league title. He was recognized as the French Footballer of the Year in 1993 and served as the club's top goalscorer during their championship season.
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In 1995, Ginola moved to Newcastle United for £2.5 million. He played a central role in the team's pursuit of the league title, finishing as runners-up in consecutive seasons. Following the appointment of manager Kenny Dalglish, Ginola moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 1997 for another £2.5 million. His time at Tottenham included winning the 1999 League Cup and earning induction into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2008.
Final Seasons and Post-Football Career
Ginola transferred to Aston Villa in 2000 for £3 million, later joining Everton in February 2002. He retired from professional football in May 2002. Post-retirement, he pursued work as a television presenter for outlets such as BBC, BT Sport, CNN, and Canal+. He also ventured into acting and modelling. In January 2015, he attempted to secure the FIFA presidency but withdrew after failing to obtain the required support from five national football associations.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 January 1967, Gassin, France
- Primary Position: Forward
- Professional Debut: 1985, Sporting Toulon
- International Record: 17 appearances, 3 goals
- 1993 French Footballer of the Year
- 1999 PFA Players' Player of the Year
- Retired: May 2002
- Occupations: Footballer, actor, model, television presenter
Questions readers ask
Which English clubs did David Ginola play for?
He played for Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, and Everton.
Did he play for the France national team?
Yes, he made 17 appearances and scored three goals for France between 1990 and 1995.
Achievements
- Represented Sporting Toulon Var, Tottenham Hotspur F.C. and Paris Saint-Germain FC
- Discipline: association football and golf
