By Abbie Meehan,Maria Ortega
Copyright dailystar
Eric Abidal has slammed false rumours circulating on social media that claimed he had died due to complications from a previous liver transplant. The Champions League winner was forced to debunk these claims, affirming that he is very much alive and well. Abidal was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2011 during his stint at Barcelona , and underwent a successful transplant a year later. This history likely fuelled the baseless speculation about his supposed death in 2025. Taking to Instagram, the 46-year-old said: “Some rumours should never exist. I’m here with my family and everything is fine. Respect is essential. “There is a family and my children behind this. To be clear, I’m fine, I’m alive and well. Thank you for your support and messages of concern. Let’s focus on what really matters.” His partner, Hayet Abidal, also addressed the rumours as she added: “Fake news. No, Eric is not dead. Thank God. Behind this kind of baseless nonsense, there is a family and children.” The update from Abidal brought widespread relief among his followers, who were worried about the former Barca star’s health. The ex-defender made 193 appearances for Barcelona over six years, scoring twice and assisting 10 times from central defence, and is a beloved figure from a legendary La Liga squad. His time on the pitch was interrupted by his fight against cancer, but his resilience and talent left an indelible mark on Spanish football. During his time with Barca, Abidal won four La Liga titles, two Champions Leagues , a UEFA Super Cup, two Copa del Reys and FIFA Club World Cups, along with three Supercopa de Espana’s. The former defender also secured league titles in France and Greece and was runner-up in the 2006 FIFA World Cup . Italy triumphed over the French on penalties in the same match that saw Zinedine Zidane’s infamous headbutt. Abidal’s career also included stints at Monaco, Lille, Lyon, and Olympiacos, earning 67 caps for his country at senior level – providing five assists and receiving one red card – during an illustrious playing career. After hanging up his boots in 2014, the ex-pro took on the role of sporting director at Barcelona from 2018 to 2020. However, Abidal’s tenure at the helm of the Spanish giants ended in disaster. He was given the boot following the club’s humiliating 8-2 defeat against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals. The former France international is now the sporting director for Al Wasl Sports Club in the United Arab Emirates. Throughout his professional football career, he made 438 appearances.
