Last Sunday, Luynes narrowly lost on Berre’s field, the leader of the Régional 1 championship. This defeat ended a streak of fifteen unbeaten matches – in all competitions – since January. It dashed hopes of promotion to the higher level.
After a slow start to the season, Luynes, whose squad underwent significant changes over the summer, managed to turn things around brilliantly. This turnaround coincided with the return of a key player in Franck Guardiola’s lineup: captain Djafar Soilihi.
A Longevity on Grass and Sand
After being absent for several months due to an incident in beach soccer, where he reacted at the end of the game after being intentionally struck, Djafar Soilihi regained his place and captain’s armband at the start of the year. His aura and leadership remain intact.
At 37 years old, the central defender, who previously played for Berre and Salon Bel-Air and is also an international beach soccer player for the Comoros, has not lost any of his influence. In great form and dedication, he continues to be a major asset. His longevity can be attributed to both his passion and love for the game, on the grass and on the sand, where he still plays for Marseille Beach Team under Gérald Guidarini’s guidance.
“The football is part of my life and I can’t imagine it without it. It’s been in me since I was little. So, I always strive to be as strong as possible. A healthy lifestyle is crucial, both in terms of food and physically. I take care of myself to perform well on the field. It’s certainly more challenging at 37 than before, but the passion remains intact. As long as I don’t feel overwhelmed by the level, I will continue,” said Djafar Soilihi.
Guardiola: “One Hell of a Captain”
A leader from the start, Djafar Soilihi, who looks up to amateur players like Dante or Hilton, seems to have many good years ahead of him. His current coach, Franck Guardiola, praises him, saying, “I apologize for the language, but he’s one hell of a captain! We’ve been through a lot together, and he has remained faithful to himself in both good and rare bad times. He is loyal, intelligent, and respectable.”
The Luynes coach also acknowledges Mehdi Ben Salem for bringing Djafar into the team. “Djafar has brought a lot to this group through his leadership, his ability to connect and unite. He continues to do so this season since his return, even though it’s the result of the whole team’s effort. The footballer has nothing to envy about the man, and that’s why I will always wish him the best.”
These strong words reflect Djafar Soilihi’s personality and journey. Throughout the seasons, football has brought him a lot of emotions, nourishing his immense passion to this day. He continues to pass on his experience to younger players, with a simple message: never give up.
“Even without being a professional, the ball has given me moments that have left a mark on my life,” says the man known as “Dja.” “I inevitably think of the experience with the Comoros national team, which allowed me to discover my parents’ homeland. I believe people are not aware that football, in all its forms, can bring a tremendous amount.”
Context note: Djafar Soilihi is a key player for Luynes football club, known for his leadership and passion for the game. His return to the team has been instrumental in their recent success.
Fact Check: The article accurately describes Djafar Soilihi’s background and his impact on the team, as well as his involvement in beach soccer and international play for the Comoros.
