Barthez agrees to return to play for Nantes

FORMER France and Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has confirmed he will return to French football to play for Ligue 1 strugglers Nantes.

The 35-year-old, who left his last club Olympique Marseille in the summer, had announced his retirement in October.

“If Nantes had called me two months ago I would probably have said no. Some 15 clubs called me but I was not ready,” he said.

“Nantes are a great club and their president found the right words.”

Barthez’ acquisition could prove crucial for Nantes, who lie one place from the bottom of Ligue 1. “It’s an important challenge for Barthez and he is important for us. Our team needs someone of his calibre,” club president Rudi Roussillon said.

As well as two spells with Marseille and his stint at United, Barthez also played for Toulouse and Monaco.