AN ARSENAL academy graduate looks completely different following a drastic new look – including long fluent dreadlocks.
The former defender was famous for his lung-busting runs down the wing during his time at the Emirates.
5The ex-defender played 32 times for ArsenalCredit: Instagram @armandtraoreofficial
He even played alongside the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie in North London.
And also featured in Dennis Bergkamp’s testimonial in the first ever game at the Emirates Stadium back in 2006.
The 33-year-old spent the majority of his playing career in English football – racking up a total of 97 Prem appearances.
He ended his days with Cardiff three years ago despite failing to play a single minute during his second spell with the club.
And the speedster would announce his retirement at the age of 31.
Back when he came through the ranks at Arsenal, he boasted a youthful look with a fresh trim and a clean beard.
But he’s been rocking a remarkable change of look on Instagram.
The short back and sides have been swapped for long flowing dreadlocks.
He went from the short hair to the longer look in the latter years of his playing days but the dreads only came about once he hung up his boots.
And the mystery footballer can be revealed as… Armand Traore.
Traore made 32 appearances for the Gunners, including in the humiliating 8-2 defeat against Manchester United in 2011.
Only 13 of those came in the league though, with much of his game-time coming in the Carabao Cup.
He would eventually leave Arsenal permanently in 2011 following loan stints with Portsmouth and Juventus.
Traore also enjoyed spells with QPR, Nottingham Forest, Cardiff and Caykur Rizespor before returning to South Wales to round off his career.
On the international stage, he spent his youth days with France, but eventually decided to play for Senegal at senior level, winning five caps.
On the international stage, he spent his youth days with France, but eventually decided to play for Senegal at senior level, winning five caps.
5Traore spent five years at ArsenalCredit: Getty
He played alongside the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Thierry HenryCredit: Getty
5Traore played 97 times in the Premier LeagueCredit: Arsenal FC – Getty
He retired from football in 2020 with Cardiff City his last clubCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
Source: the-sun.com
