20 Facts About Odsonne Edouard

Early Life and Career

Odsonne Édouard's journey from a small town in French Guiana to the bustling football arenas of Europe is nothing short of inspiring. Let's dive into his early years and the beginnings of his career.

1. Odsonne Édouard was born in Kourou, French Guiana, to Haitian parents. His family moved to Paris when he was six years old, setting the stage for his future in football.

2. Édouard joined the Paris Saint-Germain Academy in 2011 from amateur side AF Bobigny. He quickly earned nicknames like "The Rocket" and "Magic Odsonne" for his stellar performances at the youth level.

Loan Spells and Challenges

Every footballer's journey has its ups and downs. Édouard's career faced some early challenges, but he emerged stronger.

3. In 2016, Édouard was loaned to Toulouse in Ligue 1. However, his loan spell was cut short due to an incident involving an airsoft gun, leading to a suspended prison sentence and a fine.

Rise at Celtic FC

Édouard's move to Celtic FC marked a significant turning point in his career. His time in Scotland was filled with achievements and memorable moments.

4. In March 2017, Édouard joined Celtic FC on loan with an option to purchase for €10 million. He made his debut for Celtic in September 2017 and quickly became a fan favorite.

5. During his time at Celtic, Édouard won multiple domestic titles. These included the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup.

6. In the 2019-2020 season, Édouard was adjudged the SFWA Footballer of the Year. He became the first French player to win this award.

7. Édouard concluded his time at Celtic with an impressive goal-scoring record. He scored 88 goals in 179 appearances, making him one of the top scorers in the Scottish Premiership since its inception in 2013.

8. Édouard's performances in the UEFA Champions League were notable. He played a significant role in Celtic's Champions League campaigns, scoring crucial goals against top European teams.

Transition to Crystal Palace

After making a name for himself in Scotland, Édouard took his talents to the English Premier League with Crystal Palace.

9. In August 2021, Édouard signed for Crystal Palace on a four-year contract. He made his debut for the club on September 11, 2021, scoring two goals in a 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

10. Édouard's debut in the Premier League was historic. He scored the quickest debut goal ever in the English top division, netting after just 28 seconds.

11. At Crystal Palace, Édouard has continued to impress. His ability to find the back of the net and his technical skills have made him a valuable asset for the Eagles.

International Career and Personal Life

Beyond club football, Édouard has also made his mark on the international stage and faced personal challenges.

12. Édouard has represented France at various youth levels. He shone at the 2015 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, winning the Golden Player and Golden Boot awards.

13. Édouard's personal life has been subject to some controversy. In 2017, he was involved in an incident involving an airsoft gun, leading to a suspended prison sentence and a fine.

14. Édouard's family background is significant. His parents are of Haitian descent, and his family's move to Paris had a profound impact on his early life and career.

Playing Style and Recognition

Édouard's unique playing style and numerous accolades have set him apart in the football world.

15. Édouard's playing style is characterized by his technical skills and poise in front of goal. He is most effective when deployed behind or in support of a lead striker.

16. During his time at Celtic, Édouard was the top scorer in the Scottish Premiership twice. He achieved this feat in both the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 seasons, scoring 22 goals in each.

17. Édouard's achievements have been recognized by both his club and the Scottish football community. He was named on the PFA team of the year in 2021.

Market Value and Future Prospects

Édouard's market value and future in football continue to be topics of interest among fans and pundits.

18. Édouard's market value has been a subject of interest. His transfer to Crystal Palace was initially reported to be worth £14 million, with the potential to rise to £18 million with add-ons.

19. Édouard has received high praise from his managers. Brendan Rodgers described him as "one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe," while Neil Lennon praised his dedication and commitment.

20. As Édouard continues to play for Crystal Palace, his future prospects look bright. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and his consistent goal-scoring record make him a valuable asset for any team.

Odsonne Edouard: A Rising Star

Odsonne Edouard's journey from Paris Saint-Germain's Academy to Crystal Palace showcases his talent and determination. Born in Kourou, French Guiana, he moved to Paris at six, joining PSG's youth ranks in 2011. His loan to Toulouse had its ups and downs, but his move to Celtic FC in 2017 marked a turning point. At Celtic, he won multiple titles and individual awards, scoring 88 goals in 179 appearances. His transfer to Crystal Palace in 2021 saw him make an immediate impact, scoring two goals on his debut. Internationally, he's shone for France's youth teams, winning the Golden Player and Golden Boot at the 2015 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. Despite some personal controversies, Edouard's skill and dedication make him a valuable asset. Fans and pundits eagerly watch his next moves, anticipating more great performances.