Metz defender Tahirys dos Santos, who survived a Swiss bar fire on New Year’s Eve that killed 41 people, has signed his first professional contract.
The 19-year-old, who helped rescue his partner at the Le Constellation bar in the ski resort of Crans-Montana, was one of more than 100 people injured, sustaining burns to 30% of his body that needed a skin graft.
Advertisement
He returned to action for Metz reserves on 11 April.
Dos Santos, who joined the academy aged eight, has agreed a one-year deal.
“This moment has an even more special meaning after the difficult months I went through in hospital,” he told the club website.
“This ordeal made me stronger and taught me to never give up.
“I want to send all my support to everyone who is still fighting. Never lose hope.”
Metz are bottom of Ligue 1 with three wins from 30 games, and are 10 points from safety with four matches remaining.







