Melvin Mallard: The Manchester United star’s journey from Reunion Island to the League Cup final against Chelsea

With a population of just 900,000, Reunion is more famous for its volcanoes, wildlife and tropical climate than its professional footballers.

On the men’s side, fans may remember former West Ham star Dimitri Payet and Newcastle winger Laurent Robert, but those who have come this way make up a short list.

Growing up, Mallard tried boxing, karate, judo and handball before discovering soccer.

“When I tried football, I said: This is my sport, because I can exert a lot of energy and I can play freely,” she says.

She started playing in the island capital for Saint-Denis FC before a chance meeting with Bombastour, who was running Lyon’s academy at the time.

“She said, ‘Mel, I like you, come to Lyon,'” Mallard says. “I had two months to think, but I said yes straight away because it was a big opportunity in my life.”

Going from sunny Reunion to the harsh winter of Lyon alone at the age of fourteen was a shock to her system.

“It was very difficult, but I knew what I wanted and I knew it was football,” she says. “Every morning and every night, I would put my shoes on and go to the field and I would be happy.”

Seizing these early opportunities has paid off well for Mallard – three league titles, four Champions League medals and the experience of playing alongside some of the best players in the world at Lyon and the French national team.

Now, in Manchester, she continues to love her experiences – despite the gloomy weather.

“Every time I walk past Old Trafford, it’s a dream for me,” says Mallard. “People are very nice when I play football, and they sing my name on the field. The club is very big, has a great history and I enjoy it very much here.”

It will be a full-on moment for Mallard against Chelsea, managed by Bombastor, in the cup final.

“I’m excited, it’s good for us and this club deserves it,” says Mallard, who was involved in the 4-0 win over Tottenham in the 2023-24 FA Cup final as United lifted their first major women’s trophy.

“I’m also excited to play against my team [former] trainer. If we win we will put the name back in history and that is what we want.

“I’m confident because I believe in this team, I believe in this club. We are here to win with everything we can.”