Mathieu Flamini Bio Send To Friend  

Although having struggling to cement a placed in the Arsenal side and becoming more of a utility player, Flamini has shown enough potential to suggest he can be an important squad player.

His versatility took a new twist in 2005/06 when, with the Gunners' defence decimated by injury, he found himself as the first choice left-back for the second half of the season.

Flamini had joined Arsenal on a free transfer from Marseille in July 2004.

The France Under-21 international signed what the Gunners described as a 'long-term' contract' but he was the target of criticism from Marseille coach Jose Anigo for agreeing to Arsenal's advances.

Manager Arsene Wenger said: 'He is very powerful and plays with great creativity, both as a defensive and attacking midfielder, and will be a tremendous addition to our squad.'

French reports suggested Flamini signed a four-year deal after a rejecting a senior contract with Marseille, much to Anigo's chagrin.

'This is a beautiful treason. He (Flamini) used me,' Anigo said.

Anigo had hoped Flamini would sign a permanent deal with Marseille, for whom he made 14 league appearances in 2003/04, but believes the player was tempted by the financial rewards on offer at Highbury.

Born in Marseille, Flamini established himself in the first team during the second half of 2003/04, and also played a significant role in helping the team reach the UEFA Cup final.

Marseille battled hard for the player, persuading the French FA to refuse international clearance. But both the English FA and FIFA approved the transfer and Flamini joined the Gunners.

Marseille's long appeal finally came to an end in January 2005 when the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled against them.

That delayed his debut, but he finally saw action when coming on as a substitute against Everton. He made his first start against Manchester City in the Carling Cup.

After being used sparingly in 2004/05 he became far more involved in 2005/06 and was a key part in Arsenal's path to the Champions League final, although he did not start in Paris.

Frustrated by a lack of first-team chances, Flamini opted to leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the 2006/07 season, but has yet to find himself another club.