Former Barcelona defender Abidal returns to Monaco

Eric Abidal, the former French defender has returned back to Monaco on a one-year deal after his contact ended with Barcelona. Monaco on their website (www.asm-fc.com) announced that the 33-year-old player, who began his professional career with them in 2000 will be returning to the club after 13 years.

In these 13 years Abidal had been a part of Lille, Olympique Lyon and Barcelona. He had said an emotional farewell to Barcelona last month after the team decided to not renew his contract.

The french defender, who won 61 caps for his country and also represented the team in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups. He fought his way back into the team after having a liver transplant last year.

Monaco are bankrolled by Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev and have been active in the transfer market since they were promoted to League 1 at the end of last season. Other signings include Colombian striker Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid for a transfer fee in excess of 50 million euros.