Hugo Lloris

Hugo Lloris (born 26 December 1986 in Nice) is a French football (soccer) goalkeeper. He currently plays for Olympique Lyonnais after signing from OGC Nice.

Career

Hugo began his football career at his hometown club OGC Nice. After spending nearly three years in their youth scheme, he was promoted to the first team squad and was handed the number 1 kit, which he would hold onto. He made his debut on 18 March 2006 at just 19 years of age against Stade Rennais FC picking up a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory. He would go on to make 4 more appearances that season. The following season, Hugo was given the starting job permanently ahead of fan-favorite and Nice-born as well Damien Gregorini, which subsequently led to Gregorini's departure to AS Nancy. Hugo would go on to appear in 37 league matches recording 13 clean sheets. His efforts that season led to him being approached by several big European clubs in hopes of signing him for the future.

Transfer Interest

After another solid season with Nice, speculation arose as to where Lloris would play the following season. He was primarily linked to French giants Olympique Lyonnais, who wanted him to replace the departing Grégory Coupet, A.C. Milan, who wanted him to replace the Brazilian Dida (goalkeeper), and Tottenham Hotspur F.C., who wanted Lloris to replace Paul Robinson (goalkeeper).

Olympique Lyonnais

After reportedly coming to personal terms with Milan, Hugo proceeded to snub the Italian giants for the seven-time Ligue 1 champions Olympique Lyonnais. Lloris explained his decision citing Lyon's UEFA Champions League ambitions, more playing time at Lyon, and in Milan, he was not guaranteed the starting goalkeeper spot.The transfer fee was priced at €8.5 million.He was promptly handed the number 1 jersey and also the starting goalkeeper position.

International Career

Lloris has been considered France national football team future no. 1 keeper along with Olympique Marseille Steve Mandanda as both are young and talented. He received his first call-up to the national team for France's 6 February 2008 showdown against Spain national football team. However, he would instead play for France B national football team in their friendly match against the Congo DR national football team, held the day before the Spain friendly.

Lloris is still eligible to appear with the France national under-21 football team. However, due to his recent call-ups to the national team, his status with the U-21's appears unlikely.