Births on January 31

Yves Ma-Kalambay, Belgian footballer

Yves Makabu-Ma-Kalambay, born on 31 January 1986, is a respected former professional footballer who distinguished himself as a goalkeeper throughout his career. His journey in professional football spanned across various clubs in both England and Belgium, culminating his playing tenure with the English club Wycombe Wanderers.

A Distinguished Club Career Across Europe

Ma-Kalambay's professional path saw him represent several prominent clubs, each contributing to his experience and development as a seasoned shot-stopper. He notably began his senior professional journey after emerging from the esteemed youth academy system of Chelsea Football Club. While at Chelsea, from 2003 to 2007, he honed his skills but did not make a senior competitive appearance for the London giants, instead gaining valuable experience through loan spells, including one with Watford.

Following his time at Chelsea, Ma-Kalambay moved to Watford permanently where he started to establish himself. A significant period of his career was spent in Scotland with Hibernian, where he became a key figure and first-choice goalkeeper, making over 80 appearances in the Scottish Premier League and gaining considerable acclaim for his performances between 2007 and 2010. His next move brought him to Swansea City in England, adding further experience to his professional resume before a return to his ancestral homeland of Belgium with KV Mechelen. He then concluded his playing days back in England with Wycombe Wanderers, where he played until his retirement from professional football in 2015.

International Representation: From Olympic Heights to Senior Caps

Ma-Kalambay's international career is noteworthy for his dual representation. Despite his parents originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, he was raised in Brussels, Belgium, which allowed him to represent the European nation at youth level. A highlight of his international youth career was representing Belgium at the prestigious 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. As part of the Belgian U23 squad, he contributed to a memorable campaign that saw the team reach the semi-finals of the men's football tournament, a significant achievement for Belgian football.

Following his Olympic participation, Ma-Kalambay made the decision to represent the senior national team of the Democratic Republic of Congo, aligning with his heritage. He subsequently earned several full international caps for the DR Congo, competing in various international fixtures and fulfilling a dream to play for the country of his parents' birth at the highest level.

Frequently Asked Questions about Yves Ma-Kalambay

What position did Yves Ma-Kalambay play?

Yves Ma-Kalambay played as a goalkeeper throughout his professional football career.

Which clubs did Yves Ma-Kalambay play for?

His club career included spells at Chelsea (youth and professional contract), Watford, Hibernian, Swansea City, KV Mechelen, and finally Wycombe Wanderers.

Which countries did Ma-Kalambay represent internationally?

He represented Belgium at the U23 level, notably at the 2008 Summer Olympics, and later went on to play for the senior national team of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

When did Yves Ma-Kalambay retire from professional football?

Yves Ma-Kalambay retired from professional football in 2015, with Wycombe Wanderers being his final club.