A professional career beginning in 2004 with Auxerre established the trajectory for Younes Kaboul, a centre-back born in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois. Throughout his time in football, he represented various clubs, most notably during two distinct stints with Tottenham Hotspur, and earned five caps for the senior France national team, recording one goal during his 2011 international campaign.
Early Development and Auxerre
Kaboul emerged from the youth systems at Bellegarde, Concordia, and Plastics Vallée before joining Auxerre. He transitioned into the first team for the 2004–05 season, marking his competitive debut on 3 October 2004 against Toulouse. During his tenure at the club, he contributed to the 2005 Coupe de France victory. By the 2006–07 season, he had solidified his position as a regular starter at centre-back, recording 40 appearances across all competitions and scoring two goals before his departure.
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In July 2007, Kaboul moved to Tottenham Hotspur for a fee reported at £8 million. His early tenure featured a 2008 Football League Cup title, where he appeared as a substitute in the final against Chelsea. After struggling with injuries and tactical shifts under Juande Ramos, he joined Portsmouth in August 2008 for approximately £6 million. During his initial spell at Portsmouth, he registered five goals in 50 appearances before rejoining Tottenham in January 2010 for a reported £9.5 million.
Later Club Career
Following his second period with Tottenham, Kaboul continued his professional life in football by joining Sunderland in 2015, where he made 24 appearances. His career also included a subsequent move to Watford. Throughout these tenures, he operated primarily as a defender, balancing his responsibilities between right-back and centre-back roles while managing various fitness challenges and suspensions that impacted his availability across different seasons.
Fast facts
- Born: 4 January 1986
- Birthplace: Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, France
- Citizenship: France, Morocco
- Primary Position: Centre-back
- Senior International Appearances: 5
- Senior International Goals: 1
- Religion: Islam
Questions readers ask
Which major trophy did Kaboul win with Tottenham?
He won the Football League Cup in 2008.
How many senior caps did Kaboul earn for France?
He played five matches for the senior national team in 2011.
