FC Basel have bolstered their defence with the free transfer signing of French full-back Clément Michelin. The 29-year-old moved after his contract with Real Valladolid was terminated and signed a deal at the Swiss club until June 30, 2028, as confirmed on Tuesday.
The experienced right-back brings over 180 competitive appearances in the top flights of France and Spain. Michelin was developed at FC Toulouse and had spells with RC Lens, Girondins Bordeaux, AC Ajaccio, AEK Athens, Racing Santander and most recently Valladolid. He made 42 Ligue 1 appearances, 94 in Ligue 2, and 47 in the Spanish Segunda División.
What role will Michelin play in the FCB squad?
Technical director Andreas Herrmann described the new signing as a dynamic player with an attacking drive. "He can be used on both sides and gives us additional options on the defensive flanks," Herrmann said according to the kicker.de report. This flexibility is valuable for FC Basel, who are aiming for a strong finish in the current Super League season. The current squad list shows a team taking shape after the winter break.
Michelin himself expressed excitement about the move. He said FC Basel was known to him because of its international history and many famous players. "The prospect of playing alongside Xherdan Shaqiri in the future made the decision even easier for me," the Frenchman stated. His contract with Valladolid was terminated on September 1, making him immediately eligible to play for FCB.
How does this affect the current defensive situation?
The signing comes at a time when FC Basel want various options in defence. Michelin's experience in several European top leagues is intended to help Fabio Celestini's team immediately. The club currently sits mid-table in the Super League, with the standings showing the tight battle for positions. A more stable defensive foundation could make the difference in upcoming matches.
FCB's defence has seen different configurations in the season's matches so far. Michelin brings not only experience but also the ability to operate as a classic defender and with an attacking impulse. This versatility was important to the club in their search for reinforcement.
What does the move mean for transfer planning?
As a free transfer, it leaves FC Basel with financial flexibility for further reinforcements if needed. The club has completed an economically sensible deal by signing an experienced professional without a transfer fee. Such transfers are particularly valuable in the current market situation.
The contract until 2028 provides planning security for both sides. Michelin gets the chance to establish himself in Switzerland and be available to FCB for several years. For the player, it is his first stint in the Swiss league after previously being active only in France, Greece and Spain.
FC Basel now focus on integrating the new player. The next opportunity to see Michelin in the red and blue shirt will be in the upcoming league fixture. The exact schedule for the coming weeks can be found on the fixtures page. The 29-year-old Frenchman's contract runs until the end of the 2027/28 season.
