Why Do People Love Aymeric Laporte?
Aymeric Laporte, the 29-year-old French professional footballer, has captured the hearts of many fans worldwide with his exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and humble personality.
Playing as a center-back for Manchester City and the France national team, Laporte has established himself as one of the most talented and respected defenders in modern football. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why people love Aymeric Laporte, exploring his impressive journey, on-field prowess, and off-field character.
Aymeric Laporte’s Early Life and Career
Born in Agen, France, on May 27, 1994, Aymeric Laporte’s love for football blossomed at a young age. He joined the youth academy of Bayonne at the tender age of 8, where his talent quickly caught the attention of scouts from Athletic Bilbao. In 2010, at just 16 years old, Laporte made the bold decision to leave his home country and join the prestigious Bilbao youth setup in Spain.
Breakthrough at Athletic Bilbao
Laporte’s dedication and hard work paid off as he rapidly progressed through the youth ranks at Athletic Bilbao. In 2012, he made his professional debut for the club’s reserve team, Bilbao Athletic, and it didn’t take long for him to cement his place in the senior squad. By the 2013-14 season, Laporte had become a regular starter for Athletic Bilbao, showcasing his defensive prowess and composure on the ball.
Over the next four seasons, Laporte’s performances continued to soar, earning him recognition as one of the best young defenders in La Liga. His consistency and reliability at the back made him an integral part of Athletic Bilbao’s success, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the world of football.
Aymeric Laporte’s Move to Manchester City
In January 2018, Aymeric Laporte’s exceptional talent caught the attention of Manchester City, one of the Premier League’s most successful and ambitious clubs. Recognizing his immense potential, Manchester City broke their transfer record at the time, paying an impressive £57 million to secure Laporte’s services.
Adapting to the Premier League
Joining a new league and a team with sky-high expectations can be a daunting task for any player, but Laporte’s transition to Manchester City was seamless. His composure, anticipation, and reading of the game allowed him to adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League, forming formidable defensive partnerships with the likes of John Stones and Ruben Dias.
Aymeric Laporte’s Premier League Stats with Manchester City
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017-18 | 13 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
| 2018-19 | 35 | 3 | 0 | 20 |
| 2019-20 | 24 | 1 | 1 | 14 |
| 2020-21 | 27 | 2 | 1 | 17 |
| 2021-22 | 31 | 4 | 0 | 20 |
| 2022-23 | 28 | 2 | 0 | 15 |
Winning Trophies with Manchester City
Aymeric Laporte’s move to Manchester City has been a resounding success, with the French defender playing a pivotal role in the club’s numerous trophy triumphs. His impressive performances have helped Manchester City win four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and four EFL Cups, cementing his status as one of the most decorated defenders in the club’s history.
Aymeric Laporte’s International Career
Despite his impressive club form, Aymeric Laporte’s journey to the France national team was not a straightforward one. Initially eligible to play for Spain due to his time at Athletic Bilbao, Laporte opted to represent his country of birth, France, in 2021.
Establishing Himself in the French Squad
Laporte’s debut for France came in September 2021, in a World Cup qualifier against Ukraine. Since then, he has become a regular fixture in the French national team, forming a solid defensive partnership with the likes of Raphael Varane and Presnel Kimpembe.
Aymeric Laporte’s International Appearances and Goals
| Year | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 5 | 0 |
| 2022 | 11 | 1 |
| 2023 | 7 | 1 |
Contributing to France’s Success
Aymeric Laporte’s inclusion in the French national team has been a significant boost to their defensive stability. His performances have played a crucial role in France’s recent successes, including their victory in the 2022 UEFA Nations League and their impressive run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they reached the semi-finals.
Aymeric Laporte’s Playing Style and Qualities
One of the primary reasons why people love Aymeric Laporte is his exceptional defensive abilities. With his towering frame, impeccable positioning, and anticipation, Laporte is a formidable presence in the backline. His ability to read the game, make crucial interceptions, and win aerial duels makes him a defensive rock for both Manchester City and the French national team.
Composure on the Ball
In addition to his defensive skills, Laporte is widely praised for his composure and technical ability on the ball. His neat and accurate passing, combined with his ability to carry the ball forward, makes him a valuable asset in building attacks from the back. This quality sets him apart from many traditional center-backs and adds an extra dimension to his game.
Leadership and Mentality
Aymeric Laporte’s leadership qualities and strong mentality are also highly regarded by fans and pundits alike. Despite his relatively young age, he displays a maturity and calmness on the pitch that inspires confidence in his teammates. His ability to remain composed under pressure and make crucial decisions in high-stakes matches is a testament to his mental fortitude.
Aymeric Laporte’s Off-Field Character
Beyond his on-field exploits, Aymeric Laporte’s humble and grounded personality has endeared him to many fans. Despite achieving immense success and playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world, Laporte remains humble, always crediting his teammates and coaches for his achievements.
Philanthropic Efforts
Laporte’s commitment to giving back to the community is another reason why he is loved by many. He has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting initiatives to improve access to education and healthcare for underprivileged children.
Family Man
Aymeric Laporte is also known for his strong family values and dedication to his loved ones. He often shares glimpses of his life with his wife and children on social media, showcasing the importance he places on maintaining a balanced personal and professional life.
Conclusion
Aymeric Laporte’s rise to fame and the adoration he receives from fans worldwide is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and admirable character. From his humble beginnings in France to his record-breaking transfer to Manchester City, Laporte’s journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, both on and off the pitch.
His defensive prowess, composure on the ball, and leadership qualities have made him an indispensable asset for both Manchester City and the French national team. However, it is his humility, philanthropic efforts, and dedication to his family that truly set him apart and endear him to fans worldwide.
As Aymeric Laporte continues to excel in his career, his impact extends far beyond the confines of the football pitch. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers and a shining example of how to balance success with humility, compassion, and a strong sense of values.
In conclusion, people love Aymeric Laporte not only for his exceptional skills but also for the way he carries himself both on and off the field. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and staying true to one’s values, making him a true role model for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Aymeric Laporte’s playing position?
Aymeric Laporte primarily plays as a center-back, forming a vital part of the defensive line for both Manchester City and the French national team.
Which clubs has Aymeric Laporte played for?
Aymeric Laporte began his professional career with Athletic Bilbao in Spain, where he spent six seasons before transferring to Manchester City in 2018.
How many trophies has Aymeric Laporte won with Manchester City?
Since joining Manchester City in 2018, Aymeric Laporte has won four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and four EFL Cups, making him one of the most decorated defenders in the club’s history.
When did Aymeric Laporte make his international debut for France?
Aymeric Laporte made his international debut for France in September 2021, in a World Cup qualifier against Ukraine.
What are some of Aymeric Laporte’s notable qualities on the pitch?
Aymeric Laporte is renowned for his exceptional defensive prowess, including his impeccable positioning, anticipation, aerial ability, and composure on the ball. He is also praised for his leadership qualities and strong mentality.
