Monaco defender Eric Abidal, who was known around the world for his spell at Spanish giants Barcelona, has revealed that his former team mate Dani Alves offered to donate part of his liver to his colleague and friend.

Abidal started his playing career AS Lyon Duchere, an amateur team in the suburbs of his native land, France. He began at the club as a youth player, but eventually his talent was recognized by scouts, who put him in contact with French giants Monaco. He then signed a professional contract with the club, and made his first team debut against Toulouse FC in September 2000. He also made 8 appearances for the Monaco B side. This spell at the club gave his career the kickstart, and Monaco would be a club he returned to in the future. He then moved to Lille in 2002, where he made 62 appearances for the club, before being approached by Lyon. He signed for Lyon in 2004, and this gave his French international career a big boost, as he was selected for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, and went on to bag the runners up medal in the final against Italy.

The big move of his career came in 2007 when Barcelona came calling, and Abidal did not think twice before accepting the offer from the Spanish champions. He went on to spend four successful seasons with the club, playing regularly in the first team. However, it was announced in 2011 by the club that Abidal had been diagnosed with a tumor in his liver. He underwent surgery, but despite his condition, he played the full 90 minutes in Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League final against Manchester United, which was won by the Spaniards 3-1 at Wembley Stadium. After spending six months out of action, he was given the green light to train, but his days at Barcelona were numbered, as the club wanted younger players.

According to the Metro, Abidal appreciated the gesture by Alves, who offered to donate his liver and put his professional career at risk to save his friend.

Abidal said, “My relationship with Dani goes much further than him taking my old No.22 shirt.

“When I had to undergo surgery, he offered to donate his liver.”

“Of course, it’s completely out of the question because he is a professional footballer.

“Our relationship goes much deeper than friendship.”