This page highlights the top 10 stickers from the Panini Foot 2001-2002 album, chosen for their significance to collectors in terms of both monetary value and sentiment.
The 2001/2002 Ligue 1 season was an exciting and competitive campaign that saw Lyon emerge as the champions, claiming their first-ever Ligue 1 title! Lyon’s strong team performances were led by stars like Juninho Pernambucano and Sonny Anderson!
Theres always stars emerging from France, lets see what the 2001/02 Panini Foot set brings.
Let’s get into the top 10!
10 – Lionel Mathis Rookie Sticker – #21
Lionel Mathis was a versatile and hardworking midfielder known for his technical ability, tactical intelligence, and tireless energy on the pitch. Capable of playing both in attacking and deeper roles, he had an eye for precise passes and a knack for contributing defensively when needed.
Mathis wasn’t the flashiest player, but his consistency and dedication made him a valuable asset to his teams. At Auxerre, he won 2 Coup de France titles and won the 2002/03 Young Player of the Year.
A nice collectors piece for Auxerre and Guingamp fans!
9 – Benjamin Nivet Rookie Sticker – #404
Benjamin Nivet was a skillful and intelligent attacking midfielder who became a symbol of consistency and loyalty, especially at Troyes. Known for his superb vision, technical ability, and calmness under pressure, he was able to progress play with intelligent one-touch play, with the potential goal threat. Despite not being the quickest player, Nivet’s football IQ and knack for reading the game allowed him to excel well into his later years.
For Troyes fans, he was more than just a player—he was a leader and a legend, embodying the spirit of the club with his dedication and performances over many seasons. Nivet became the oldest player to ever score in Ligue 1 at the age of 41 years and 103 days!
Not the biggest name, but a legend for Troyes and a player known for his incredible longevity.
8 – Gaël Danic Rookie Sticker – #312
Gaël Danic was a creative and skillful winger known for his excellent crossing, sharp dribbling, and ability to create chances from wide areas. With great technique and a knack for delivering accurate set-pieces, he was a constant threat on the flanks and a difficult player to defend!
Danic combined flair with work ethic, often tracking back to support defensively while also providing energy in attack. His versatility and eye for key passes made him a valuable asset.
During his time at Valenciennes, Danic was their star player and often the man to set up the goals. His performances earned him a move to Lyon, but he only lasted one season there before moving to Bastia.
Danic is one of those cultured wingers that are always a joy to watch!
7 – Benoît Cheyrou Rookie Sticker – #125
Benoît Cheyrou was a composed and technically gifted central midfielder known for his passing range, vision, and ability to control the tempo of a game. Often serving as the link between defence and attack, his distribution was important for the teams he played for.
His work rate, leadership, and consistency made him a key figure for teams like Marseille, where he played his best football, helping the team win the 2009-2010 Ligue 1 title!
A nice rookie!
6 – Mathieu Bodmer Rookie Sticker – #397
Mathieu Bodmer was a technically gifted and versatile player who could excel as a midfielder or central defender. Known for his elegance on the ball, excellent passing range, and composure under pressure.
Despite his tall frame, Bodmer had impressive ball control and vision, often contributing to the attack with key passes or late runs into the box. His ability to adapt to different roles on the pitch showcased his football intelligence and made him a unique and valuable player.
He played for Lille, Lyon and PSG, getting 1 Ligue 1 title with Lyon. He never capped for France which I think is very unlucky on his part. A very good player and in another era could have made the cut.
5 – Mikel Arteta Rookie Sticker – #292
Mikel Arteta was a technically refined and intelligent midfielder known for his reliable passing ability, vision, and composure on the ball.
Early in his career he operated in an advanced midfield role, utilising his technique and creativity. He shone for Rangers and Everton in this position. Later in his career he signed for Arsenal and operated primarily as a deep-lying playmaker, excelling at controlling the tempo of the game and linking defence with attack.
While not the most physical player, his tactical awareness and leadership made him a key figure in midfield, particularly during his time at Everton and Arsenal. He is now the Arsenal manager, making this an especially interesting rookie sticker to collect!
4 – Patrice Evra Rookie Sticker – #444
Patrice Evra was an energetic and dynamic left-back known for his incredible athleticism, defensive reliability, and attacking flair. With his pace and stamina, he was a constant presence up and down the flank, excelling at both shutting down wingers and providing width in attack.
Evra was also known for his leadership qualities, strong mentality, and ability to perform consistently at the highest level. He leadership qualities were recognised by Sir Alex Ferguson by appointing him captain.
Following Nice, Evra signed for Monaco and after impressing, earned a move to Manchester United. He went on to win an incredible 5 league titles and 1 UCL title!
A must have rookie sticker for Manchester United fans!
3 – Florent Malouda Rookie Sticker – #89
Florent Malouda was a skillful and hardworking winger known for his pace, strength, and ability to deliver dangerous crosses. Operating primarily on the left flank, he combined technical ability with a direct style of play. Malouda also had an eye for goal, contributing crucial strikes with his powerful and accurate left foot.
Malouda had a highly successful career, showcasing his talents at both club and international levels. After establishing himself as a standout player at Guingamp, he moved to Lyon, where he became a vital part of a dominant team that won four consecutive Ligue 1 titles! He later earned him a move to Chelsea in 2007.
At Chelsea, Malouda reached new heights, becoming a crucial figure during one of the club’s most successful eras. He won three FA Cups, a Premier League title in 2009/10 and the UCLin 2012. Known for his consistency and ability to rise in big moments, Malouda became a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge. Furthermore, he was part of the team that reached the 2006 FIFA World Cup final, playing a significant role in their run.
A top rookie sticker!
2 – Michael Essien Rookie Sticker – #39
Michael Essien was a powerful and dynamic midfielder known for his strength, work rate, and versatility. A box-to-box player, he combined defensive solidity with an ability to drive forward and contribute to attacks. Essien was known for his tough tackling, energy, and physical presence, but he also possessed excellent passing range and a powerful shot from distance. I occasionally have nightmarish flashbacks to the incredible long shot goal against Arsenal! Shown below!
Essien enjoyed significant success during his career, particularly with Chelsea. His move to the club in 2005 was a key part of the team’s rise to dominance under José Mourinho. During his time at Chelsea, Essien won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League in 2012, playing a crucial role in the team’s midfield. His performances, especially in the 2006/07 season, earned him a reputation as one of the best midfielders in the world!
Following Chelsea, he played for AC Milan, Real Madrid and Panathinaikos. He finished his career with 59 caps for Ghana. One of the underrated midfielders in my opinion. Was incredible for Mourinho’s Chelsea!
1 – Ronaldinho – #300 – Rookie Sticker from Panini Campeonato Brasileiro 1999
Ronaldinho was a magical and flamboyant playmaker who played football with unmatched joy and creativity. Known for his incredible dribbling, unmatched skills, and audacious flair, he could mesmerise defenders and fans alike! With his pinpoint passing, powerful shooting, and ability to score breathtaking goals, Ronaldinho was a true entertainer who thrived in the attacking third.
During his time at PSG from 2001 to 2003, Ronaldinho began to establish himself as one of the most exciting talents in world football. Despite the team’s inconsistency, he lit up Ligue 1 with his brilliance, scoring spectacular goals and producing moments of individual genius that hinted at his immense potential. His performances at PSG caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs, paving the way for his legendary move to Barcelona and the rest is history!
We all know how great this guy was! As for me personally, in his prime, he is the best player I have ever seen!
A huge sticker!
Summary
Some really cool rookies in this set and a long list of rookies that missed the cut, such as Omar Daf, Fahid Ben Khalfallah, Jerermy Brechet, Gael Givet and Yosef Yobo. I opted to choose the rookies with greater club legacy on early choices (10-7). As for the other rookies, they had some amazing careers! Interestingly, the number 1 spot isn’t a rookie, but can you blame me? It’s an early Ronaldinho!
Thanks for reading!
