Josuha Guilavogui, one of VfL Wolfsburg’s longest serving players, has left the club with immediate effect. The 31-year-old has returned to his native France to link up with Ligue 1 outfit Girondins Bordeaux after VfL bosses accepted the midfielder’s transfer request. Guilavogui joined the Wolves in summer 2014 and was still under contract until 2023.
“An emotional farewell”
The Frenchman says the decision to leave was based purely on sporting matters. “It was very difficult for me because my family and I felt at home in Wolfsburg,” he said. “We made a lot of friends here, I’ll always have very fond memories of our time at VfL and I’ll certainly return for the odd visit. Seven and a half years is a very long time for a professional, which is why VfL will always have a special place in my heart. We’ve experienced a lot together, celebrated triumphs, successfully fought off relegation and qualified for continental competitions. That’s why it’s an emotional farewell. I’d like to thank all the VfL employees, the management, the staff and the fans for a wonderful and unique time here.”
Two trophies, three years as captain
The departure of ‘Josh’ – as the midfielder was known by teammates, fans and friends – marks the end of an exceptionally long journey together in modern football terms. After joining the Wolves on an initial loan deal from Atletico Madrid in summer 2014, the right-footer soon became a key member of the squad both on and off the pitch. He helped VfL finish second place in the Bundesliga and win the DFB Cup in his first season at the club, before winning the Super Cup soon afterwards. In 2016, the holding player completed a permanent move to the Wolves and was also named club captain – a position he held until last summer, when he became vice-captain to Koen Casteels.
After seven and a half years in Wolves colours, the seven-time France international can not only look back on two trophy wins, a runners-up finish in the league and two relegation play-off triumphs, but 239 competitive appearances and 11 goals for the Green-and-Whites.
VfL Wolfsburg would like to thank Josuha Guilavogui for nearly eight years at the club and wish him and his family all the very best back home, both privately and professionally. Merci Josh et prenez soin de vous.
