Born in Douala, Cameroon on 14 December 1979 Jean Alain started his career in France in 1996 at the famous Le Havre youth academy. He remained with Le Havre until 2000, when he got his fist big move to AJ Auxerre.
Under the tutelage of the legendary French coach Guy Roux he has become one of the most dominant young centre halves France has produced in recent years. Along with his supremely talented central defensive partner Phillipe Mexes he has been one of the cornerstones of a successful, young and highly skilled Auxerre side, that has in recent seasons become a regular haunt for scouts from some of the continents top clubs clubs.
Standing at 6 foot 3 Jean Alain is a physically imposing and technically well schooled player on whom the tag "world class" will surely one day hang comfortably. He is immensely strong and quick. As well as being a naturally athletic defender last year's French cup final proved that he is not prone to a nose bleed if he ventures over the half way line.
Jean Alain has recently made the transition from regular "Espoir" into the senior French national squad, winning two caps to date and scoring in a 3-0 win over Israel earlier this year. The French football establishment rates him very highly indeed and fully expect him to mature into a key member of their international squad. He is sure to figure in "la selection" for Portugal 2004.
Since announcing his intention to leave Auxerre, he has been linked strongly with a move to Liverpool. Arsenal, Barcelona, Juventus and Inter Milan have all shown a strong interest. The fact that Rangers seem to be leading the pack is testament to the draw that is regular Champions League football. One only hopes we can provide it next season.
The Dunantblue verdict is that Jean Alain Boumsong is an astonishing piece of business. A potentially world class talent and already an outstanding defender. Step aside Henning Berg, it has been a pleasure to watch you.
Career Stats
Amateur
1995 - 1996 : Union Sportive Palaiseau (DHR)
1996 - 1998 : Centre de Formation du Havre
Professional
1998 - 2000 : Le Havre Athletic Club
2000 - 2003 : AJ Auxerre
International
Espoir : 11 caps
Premiere Selection : 2 caps
Key Stats
First match in Ligue 1 : Le Havre v Cannes (2-0, 13 March 1998)
First Goal in Ligue 1 : Le Havre v Nantes (14 April 1999)