About Lorik Cana
Lorik Agim Cana (Albanian pronunciation: [ˈlɔɾik ˈtsana]; born 27 July 1983) is an Albanian former professional footballer who played as a centre-back or midfielder. Known for his physicality, leadership and tactical versatility, Cana was capable of operating in both defensive midfield and central defence, qualities that made him a key figure for several clubs and the Albania national team. He is currently the Grassroots ambassador for children's football in Albania, a role appointed by the Albanian Football Association in October 2017. Born in Pristina, Yugoslavia, he represented the Albania national team. Cana played in the top divisions of France, England, Italy and Turkey, representing Paris Saint-Germain, Marseille, Sunderland, Galatasaray, Lazio and Nantes. He was recognised for his combative style, defensive ability and leadership qualities, which allowed him to adapt to different roles throughout his career. At the age of 16, he was invited for a trial with Arsenal but was unable to attend after being denied a British visa. He began his senior career with Paris Saint-Germain, winning the 2003–04 Coupe de France, before joining Marseille in 2005, where he became club captain in 2007. Initially deployed as a defensive midfielder or central midfielder, he later established himself as a centre-back, demonstrating tactical flexibility and leadership on the pitch. In 2009, Cana signed for Sunderland, becoming the first player of Albanian origin to compete in the Premier League, and was immediately appointed captain. He later played for Galatasaray before spending four seasons with Lazio, where he won the 2012–13 Coppa Italia. He concluded his club career with Nantes after returning to France in 2015. Eligible to represent Albania, Switzerland or France through his three passports, Cana chose Albania and made his senior international debut in 2003 at the age of 19. He became national team captain in 2011 and retired after UEFA Euro 2016, finishing with 94 appearances, setting Albania's appearance record, which stood until 2025 when it was surpassed by Elseid Hysaj. Cana captained Albania at their first major international tournament, UEFA Euro 2016 in France. In 2009, Cana joined Sunderland, becoming the first player of Albanian origin to play in the Premier League and was appointed captain immediately. During his career, Cana won the Coupe de France in 2003–04 with Paris Saint-Germain and the Coppa Italia in 2012–13 with Lazio. In 1997, Cana joined the local club Dardania Lausanne, an amateur side founded by the Albanian community in Lausanne and coached by his father, Agim.
Biography source: Wikipedia. The profile adds birthday-specific historical context from the Celebs Birthday Today editorial database.