Maëlle Lakrar is a dynamic French footballer recognized for her tactical intelligence, versatility, and defensive quality. As a key centre-back for Real Madrid and the France national team, she is emerging as one of the leading defenders in European football.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born Maëlle Ourida Louisette Lakrar on May 27, 2000, in Orange, France, she began her football journey at Salon BAF, developing her skills from a young age and building a foundation for her future success.
Club Career: From France to Real Madrid
Marseille
Lakrar joined Marseille in 2015 at age 15, making 50 appearances and scoring her first senior goal. She helped the club win the Division 2 Féminine title.
Montpellier
In 2018, she moved to Montpellier, where she played 96 matches and scored 3 goals over six seasons. Her performances, especially her ability to play both centre-back and right-back, earned her recognition as one of the top young defenders in Division 1 Féminine.
Real Madrid
On July 4, 2024, Lakrar signed with Real Madrid. Wearing number 23, she immediately became a regular starter, making 21 appearances and scoring 4 goals by March 2025. She has played a crucial role in the team’s strong defensive record and has quickly adapted to Liga F and European competition.
International Career: France’s Reliable Centre-Back
Lakrar has represented France at every youth level, winning the UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship in 2019 and being named in the Team of the Tournament. She played in the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and debuted for the senior national team in February 2023. By April 2025, she had earned 28 caps and scored 3 goals, including strikes in friendlies and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. She was part of the France squad that finished runners-up in the 2023–24 UEFA Women’s Nations League and competed at the 2024 Olympics.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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Division 2 Féminine champion with Marseille
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UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship winner and Team of the Tournament (2019)
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Over 165 senior club appearances by age 24
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Regular starter for Real Madrid since 2024
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28 caps and 3 goals for France as of April 2025
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World Cup and Olympic squad member
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UEFA Women’s Nations League runner-up (2023–24)
Lakrar is praised for her interceptions, reading of the game, and ability to play in multiple defensive roles.
Style of Play
Maëlle Lakrar is an all-round centre-back, known for her tactical intelligence, anticipation, and composure. She is strong in one-on-one situations, effective at intercepting passes, and comfortable distributing from the back. Her versatility allows her to play centrally or at right-back as needed.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As a regular for Real Madrid and France, Lakrar earns a competitive salary in Liga F and is positioned for increased endorsements as her profile grows in Spain and internationally.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Lakrar is known for her professionalism, humility, and commitment to continuous improvement. She is respected by teammates and coaches for her work ethic and leadership qualities.
FAQs About Maëlle Lakrar
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What position does Maëlle Lakrar play?
She is primarily a centre-back but can also play right-back. -
Which clubs has Maëlle Lakrar played for?
Salon BAF (youth), Marseille, Montpellier, and Real Madrid. -
What are Maëlle Lakrar’s top achievements?
UEFA U19 Champion, Division 2 Féminine winner, Nations League runner-up, and over 165 senior club appearances. -
How many goals has Maëlle Lakrar scored for France?
3 goals in 28 senior caps as of April 2025. -
When did Maëlle Lakrar join Real Madrid?
In July 2024.
Conclusion
Maëlle Lakrar’s journey from youth football in Orange to starring for Real Madrid and France highlights her talent, adaptability, and drive. As she continues to excel, Lakrar stands out as one of the most promising and versatile defenders in the women’s game.
