On Friday, it was announced that Thibaud would join the Foxes’ defensive ranks, bringing a wealth of experience with her from time spent in France.
Starting her career at ASJ Soyaux-Charente, the new No.17 joined from FC Girondins de Bordeaux, where she was at from 2017, prior to her first move away from her homeland to join City’s project in the WSL.
Upon signing a two-year deal, the latest summer signing explained her excitement and reason for wanting to move to Leicestershire, labelling the Club’s ambition of the Foxes as a major part.
“I feel very good here, and I’m happy to sigh for the Club,” Thibaud began. “I think the project is good for my career, and for me to grow as a player and a person so it was a good fit.
“I think that the league is the future of women’s football, so I wanted to be part of it, and I think we have everything we need to succeed, with a beautiful stadium and great facilities.
“For me, it’s new to me to play in this kind of stadium but it’s exciting, and I’m looking forward to seeing the fans. This league is very competitive, and that’s why I wanted to come here.”
At 25 years old, the defender carries plenty of ability from nine years in the French top league, Division 1 Féminine, and is hoping to play some attractive football on Filbert Way.
She continued: “I like to have the ball, playing short, but I can play long as well. I think I can be quite physical, and I want to help the team. I want to play beautiful football, and not just long balls all the time, and I know that’s what they try to do here.
“I have met the Manager, Willie Kirk, and he explained to me the project here and that he wants me to be a part of it, and I just want to make sure I can do the job.”
Looking ahead to the 2023/24 campaign, Thibaud hopes to cement herself in Leicester’s line-up, as they look to push on from last season’s 10th-placed finish.
“I want to play as many games as possible,” the centre-back stated. “For me that is the main goal. After that, it’s about getting the wins and hopefully some clean sheets along the way.”