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Patrick Vieira

Patrick Vieira is a French football coach and former professional midfielder, born in Dakar, Senegal, in 1976.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Patrick Vieira is a French football coach and former professional midfielder. Born in Dakar, Senegal, in 1976, he is best known for his long spell at Arsenal, where he captained the club. He also achieved success with the France national team, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000.

Early life and playing career

Vieira was born in Dakar, Senegal, and moved to France as a child. He developed as a youth player and made his senior debut with AS Cannes in 1993 in Ligue 1. He later played for AC Milan before becoming a major figure at Arsenal.

Arsenal and international success

At Arsenal, Vieira established himself as a dominant central midfielder and captain, helping the club win major domestic honours. With France, he was part of the squads that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000.

Later playing career

Vieira played for Juventus, Inter Milan, and Manchester City before retiring as a player in 2011. His final club appearance came with Manchester City, and he also accumulated more than 100 caps for France.

Coaching career

After retirement, Vieira moved into coaching, first with Manchester City’s academy and then as manager of New York City FC. He later managed Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Genoa.

Key facts

  • Born in Dakar, Senegal, and moved to France as a child.
  • Made his professional debut with AS Cannes in 1993.
  • Joined Arsenal in 1996 and became one of the club's most prominent captains.
  • Won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 with France.
  • After retiring, moved into coaching and management.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Patrick Vieira?
Patrick Vieira is a French former professional footballer and football manager, best known as a midfielder and former Arsenal captain.
Where was Patrick Vieira born?
He was born in Dakar, Senegal, on 23 June 1976.
Which clubs did Patrick Vieira play for?
He played for Cannes, AC Milan, Arsenal, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Manchester City.
What did Patrick Vieira win with France?
He won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 with the France national team.
What is Patrick Vieira known for at Arsenal?
He is known as one of Arsenal's most influential midfielders and for captaining the club during a highly successful period.
Has Patrick Vieira worked as a manager?
Yes. He has coached New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Genoa.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Vieira
    Supports: Basic biography, club career, international career, and later coaching roles.
  2. National Football Museum — https://nationalfootballmuseum.com/halloffame/patrick-vieira/
    Supports: Arsenal career, honours, France caps, and Hall of Fame recognition.
  3. Premier League — https://www.premierleague.com/en/players/1593/patrick-vieira/overview
    Supports: Nationality, date of birth, appearances, goals, and Premier League playing record.
  4. Arsenal FC — https://www.arsenal.com/historic/players/patrick-vieira
    Supports: Arsenal career and role in the club’s major successes.
  5. Wikipedia bahasa Indonesia — https://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Vieira
    Supports: National team honours and coaching timeline.