Santa Lucia FC officially unveiled former France international Mathieu Valbuena as their newest signing during a press conference held on Sunday evening at a leading restaurant in St Julian’s.

The 41-year-old midfielder, who enjoyed a distinguished career with some of Europe’s biggest clubs including Marseille, Lyon, Fenerbahçe and most recently Olympiacos, was officially presented as a Santa Lucia player ahead of the 2026/27 season. Valbuena, who also earned more than 50 caps for the French national team, signed his contract in front of the assembled media during the event.

The presentation attracted significant attention both locally and internationally, with Santa Lucia securing one of the most recognisable names ever to play in Maltese football and arguably the highest-profile player in the history of the Challenge League.

Speaking during the press conference, Santa Lucia President made it clear that the club’s ambitions extend far beyond promotion. He stated that the objective is not only to secure a return to the Malta Premier but also to win the Challenge League title.

Valbuena expressed his excitement about the move, describing it as an opportunity that will benefit both himself and the club. He also highlighted his desire to pass on his experience to Santa Lucia’s younger players, as well as to Maltese footballers in general.

When asked whether Valbuena would be the club’s only high-profile signing and the only French player to join this season, the President revealed that Santa Lucia will continue working to attract players of similar calibre. However, he explained that the Challenge League’s restrictions on foreign players mean the club has now filled its foreign player quota for the first part of the season following Valbuena’s arrival.

The President also disclosed that Valbuena was initially approached through a former Santa Lucia player, whose contact helped persuade the Frenchman to make the move to Malta.

He added that securing the first marquee signing is always the most difficult step, but believes Valbuena’s arrival will make it easier for the club to attract players of a similar profile in the future.

Despite being 41 years old, Valbuena is expected to play a key role in Santa Lucia’s campaign, bringing invaluable experience, leadership and quality to a squad aiming for promotion. While the Challenge League remains one of Malta’s most competitive divisions, the club is confident that the former France international can make a decisive contribution as they pursue their ambitious objectives for the season.