Former Chelsea Goalkeeper Joins French Army, Says He Is Ready to Serve in Ukraine

Former Chelsea goalkeeper Nicolas Tié has announced his readiness to participate in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine after ending his professional football career.

In an interview with the French newspaper Ouest-France on April 25, Tié stated that he had long aspired to a military career and no longer saw a future for himself in football.

According to Tié, he lost interest in playing professionally and decided to join the French army. His decision was influenced by personal experiences, notably his stepfather’s service as a paratrooper in Côte d’Ivoire.

“I always liked military professions. I told myself, 'Why not join the army? ' My stepfather was a paratrooper, and I often visited barracks and observed the military life. It inspired me,” Tié explained.

The 24-year-old former athlete now serves in France’s 1st Parachute Hussar Regiment, an armored cavalry unit. He officially enlisted earlier this month after completing the required training.

Tié emphasized that he is prepared to take part in external operations if needed, including deployments to Ukraine. “I have made a commitment to address problems at their source. If an external operation in Ukraine opens, let’s go. It doesn’t scare me,” he said.

Born on February 13, 2001, in Lille, France, Nicolas Tié joined Chelsea’s youth academy at the age of 13. Although he was considered a promising goalkeeper and represented Chelsea at U18 and U23 levels, he never made an appearance for the senior team. Following his time in England, he signed with Portugal’s Vitória de Guimarães, where he primarily played for the reserve squad.

Tié, who has Ivorian heritage, was once called up to the Ivory Coast U23 national team. In September 2023, he decided to retire from professional football at 22 years old. On April 1, 2025, he formally became a member of the French Armed Forces.

In his interview, Tié clarified that his decision was personal and not politically motivated. “I’m not involved in politics. I aim to solve problems at their root. If operations in Ukraine are open, I’m ready,” he said.

Earlier, the French military completed the training of Ukraine’s newly formed 4,500-strong “Anna of Kyiv” Brigade, equipping it with AMX-10 light tanks, Caesar howitzers, and armored personnel carriers to strengthen Ukraine’s frontline operations.

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