Patrice Rio (born 18 August 1948) is a French former professional footballer who played as a defender. He is most renowned for his extensive career at [[FC Nantes]], where he became a prominent figure in one of the club's most successful eras, securing multiple French Division 1 titles. Rio also represented the [[France national football team|France national team]], participating in the [[1978 FIFA World Cup]].
Club Career
Born in [[Le Petit-Quevilly]], [[Seine-Maritime]], Rio began his footballing journey with [[Stade Malherbe Caen]], progressing through their youth system before making his senior debut.In 1970, he transferred to [[FC Nantes]], a move that would define the majority of his professional playing career. Over 14 seasons with "Les Canaris," Rio established himself as a robust and reliable defender, known for his defensive prowess and leadership qualities. He was an integral part of the Nantes side that dominated French football in the 1970s and early 1980s, winning three [[Ligue 1|French Division 1]] titles in 1972–73, 1976–77, and 1979–80. He also experienced several [[Coupe de France]] finals, though the trophy eluded him. Rio made over 400 appearances for Nantes across all competitions before his departure in 1984.
Following his successful tenure at Nantes, he had brief spells with [[Stade Rennais F.C.]] and [[La Roche Vendée Football]] before retiring from professional football.
International Career
Patrice Rio earned 17 caps for the [[France national football team]] between 1976 and 1978. His international career highlight came when he was selected by manager [[Michel Hidalgo]] for the French squad that competed in the [[1978 FIFA World Cup]] held in [[Argentina]]. During the tournament, he featured in one group stage match, a 3–1 victory against [[Hungary national football team|Hungary]].Personal Life
Patrice Rio is the father of [[Enzo Rio]], who also went on to become a professional footballer.Honours
FC Nantes- [[Ligue 1|French Division 1]]: 1972–73, 1976–77, 1979–80
- [[Coupe de France]]: Runner-up 1972–73, 1978–79, 1982–83
References
- [https://www.worldfootball.net/player_summary/patrice-rio/ Patrice Rio] at WorldFootball.net
- [https://www.national-football-teams.com/player/20340/Patrice_Rio.html Patrice Rio] at National-Football-Teams.com
- [https://www.fff.fr/equipes-de-france/tous-les-joueurs/fiche-joueur/844-patrice-rio Patrice Rio] at FFF (in French)