An African Warrior with a French Soul: Pierre Kalulu’s Untold Journey

Pierre Kalulu, often dubbed “Kazeye” by those closest to him, is a defender who embodies the spirit of a warrior on the field and the gentleness of a lamb off it. Known for his versatility between centre-back and right-back, he has continually silenced critics while wearing the prestigious Juventus shirt. Hailing from a family where football runs deep, Pierre’s story is one of brotherhood, resilience, and parental guidance. He is part of a rare legacy—a family of four brothers, all of whom pursued careers in professional football. The Kalulu family, led by Chantal and Kyatengwa, instilled a shared passion for the sport in their sons, ensuring that no male child escaped the “football bug.”

This biography delves into the lives of Chantal and Kyatengwa’s footballing sons, paying closer attention to Pierre Kalulu. We’ll tell how their parents’ unwavering support and the brothers’ collective drive propelled them toward their dreams. It’s a story of a family united by their passion for football, centred around the remarkable childhood and inspiring rise of Pierre Kalulu, the household’s shining star and breadwinner.

Preamble:

Understanding Pierre Kalulu’s story goes deeper than his career highlights or his journey from AC Milan to proving himself in a Juventus shirt. It’s a tale of family, unity, and determination, led by his parents, Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa, who guided their sons toward a shared football dream. He is an African warrior with a French soul—a defender whose journey inspires admiration. From his days as a bright, charming boy to laying the foundation for his career and rising to become a Juventus warrior, Pierre’s path is nothing short of remarkable. Join us as we explore his incredible journey, celebrating the bonds, resilience, and achievements that shaped Kazeye’s life.

Pierre Kalulu Childhood Story:

Pierre Kalulu, fondly called “The African Warrior” and “Pierino,” carries a name as vibrant as his story. His full name is Pierre Kazeye Rommel Kalulu Kyatengwa. Born on June 5, 2000, in the 8th arrondissement of Lyon, France, he entered the world as part of a close-knit family.

Pierre is one of four brothers—Aldo, Gedeon, himself, and Joseph—and has a sister, Claudette. Their parents, Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa, have been the pillars of their children’s success. Together, they built a family rooted in love, discipline, and a shared passion for football.

Thanks to the unwavering support of Chantal and Kalulu, Pierre and his brothers have pursued professional football careers. The Kalulu family’s dedication and unity continue to inspire the football world, showcasing the strength of a solid foundation in achieving greatness.

Growing Up Years:

Pierre Kalulu is one of five children born to Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa. With four sons and one daughter, the household was filled with energy, discipline, and a shared passion for sports, especially football. From an early age, Chantal knew managing her active boys would take strength and patience, a task she handled brilliantly.

Aldo is the eldest son of the Kalulu family, followed by Gédéon, who is a year younger. Pierre, three years younger than Gédéon, is the third son. The youngest of the brothers is Joseph, five years Pierre’s junior. Completing the family is their sister, Claudette Kalulu, who, unlike her brothers, didn’t follow the shared football dreams. Rather, she escaped the “football bug” and chose a path in academics.

Early Life (Football):

In football history, it’s rare to find four brothers playing at the highest level, all starting their careers at a top French club like Olympique Lyonnais. The Kalulu brothers—Aldo, Gédéon, Pierre, and Joseph—share a unique bond, united by their passion for the game and a drive to succeed.

Aldo, the eldest, was the trailblazer. A dynamic pocket striker, he paved the way by joining Lyon’s academy. Inspired by his example, Gédéon followed next. Soon, the football bug spread to Pierre, who would go on to achieve the most success of them all. Joseph, the youngest and five years Pierre’s junior, completed the football-loving quartet.

Their proud parents, Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa didn’t have an issue with their sons all wanting to become footballers. The boys were often known as the “Kalulu clan,” a brotherhood bound by dreams, discipline, and the love of the game. When you see Chantal and Kyatengwa, all in the same Lyon shirt, you can tell they represent unity, inspiration, and family pride.

Family Background:

Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa are super-resourceful individuals who operated a middle-class home in the quiet Saint-Fons, a commune in the Metropolis of Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, eastern France. Their residence reflected stability and comfort, typical of a family that valued discipline and hard work. For the Kalulu family, life wasn’t about rags-to-riches tales but about nurturing their children in an environment that encouraged growth and ambition. It was a modest yet supportive home, where dreams were fostered, and football was embraced as both passion and purpose.

In the Kalulu household, organization was key, and one of their cherished family activities was gathering in the living room to watch football together. It was a scene filled with excitement and unity. On some days, Aldo and Pierre would proudly wear their Olympique Lyonnais Academy jerseys, ready for their dad to take them to training.

Moments like these reflected the family’s deep love for the sport. It was more than just a game—it was a shared passion that bonded them all. From their neatly arranged routines to their collective enthusiasm for football, the Kalulu home was undeniably a football-loving household where the game was part of their identity.

Pierre Kalulu Family Origin:

The French professional footballer, Pierre Kalulu, traces his roots to two distinct parts of the world: Kabimba in Belgian Congo and Likasi in Congo-Léopoldville. His father, born in the late 1950s, hails from the village of Kabimba, South Kivu Province, Katanga region, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Find here a glimpse into Pierre Kalulu’s roots—Kabimba, the birthplace of his father. A 6-hour, 5-minute drive, or approximately 291.1 km, separates Kabimba village from Rwanda.

On the other hand, her mother, Chantal Kyatengwa, has roots in Likasi, a town situated in the Haut-Katanga Province, in the south-east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Together, both parents represent the rich cultural heritage of the Congolese people. Tracing her heritage, Likasi, the hometown of Chantal Kyatengwa, is proudly highlighted on the map, showcasing the maternal roots of Pierre Kalulu’s inspiring journey.

Pierre’s French nationality comes from a combination of his parents’ naturalization and the fact that he was born in France. Another interesting aspect of the family’s heritage lies in their surname. Originally, the family name was Kyatengwa, reflecting their Congolese lineage. However, Pierre and his brothers adopted their father’s name, Kalulu, for its simplicity and ease of use.

This connection to both France and Congo forms a unique part of Pierre Kalulu’s identity. It’s a story of heritage and family pride, showing how cultural roots and modern aspirations blend to shape a footballer’s journey.

Ethnicity:

Pierre Kalulu’s ethnicity is a rich blend of Congolese heritage and French nationality. Although he proudly represents France (at the French Olympics), his French identity stems from his birth in Lyon and his parents’ naturalization. A connection to the Congolese culture runs deep in the Kalulu family, even as they built their lives in France. Pierre’s African lineage remains a proud and integral part of who he is. His dual heritage reflects a fusion of tradition and modernity, shaping him into the person and professional he is today.

Education:

Pierre Kalulu often speaks fondly about life beyond football, especially his upbringing in France. He shared that his parents placed a strong emphasis on education. Despite juggling football and school, Pierre excelled in class and was a dedicated student.

Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa believed in the importance of education as a foundation. They made it a priority for their sons to complete French high school before fully committing to football. Their plan ensured that their children had a balanced start in life, giving them the tools to succeed both on and off the pitch.

Although Pierre chose the path of becoming a professional footballer, a dream that has brought immense success, he never misses a chance to thank his parents for their guidance and foresight. Their support and planning laid the groundwork for his achievements, and he remains deeply grateful for their influence on his journey.

Pierre Kalulu Biography – Football Story:

The foundation of football in the Kalulu family began with Aldo, Pierre’s oldest brother. Known as “the king,” Aldo stood out for his brilliant passes and goal-scoring abilities, playing on the local fields of Saint-Fons. His success caught the attention of the family, and he even signed with the local club, CO St Fons.

At first, football was just a way for the Kalulu children to stay active when they weren’t focused on their studies. But as Aldo and later Gédéon made progress in the sport, playing for CO Saint-Fons, it became clear that football was more than just a pastime—it was their calling.

Pierre, however, chose a different path. Instead of joining his brothers at CO St Fons, he signed with a nearby club, Saint-Priest, located just 15 minutes away. It was the beginning of his own journey in football, one that would lead him to great success.

When Pierre started his career at Saint-Priest, his oldest brother, Aldo, was already part of Lyon’s academy, and his immediate older brother, Gédéon, had just joined the French club. Pierre’s time with Saint-Priest was crucial, as it laid the groundwork for his future at Lyon.

One of his coaches at Saint-Priest, Roger Martin, played a significant role in shaping Pierre’s development. Martin helped Pierre refine his skills and taught him the importance of football intelligence, emphasizing vision over raw physical ability.

For Pierre, it was a proud moment to join his brothers, Aldo and Gédéon, in wearing the Lyon shirt. It was a symbol of family unity and the realization of a shared dream.

Road to Fame Story:

While Roger Martin, Pierre’s coach at Saint-Priest, heavily influenced his growth in football, Pierre’s parents played an equally vital role in supporting their sons. They gave their all to ensure the boys had every opportunity to succeed.

When Joseph, the youngest Kalulu, joined Lyon at just seven years old, it became clear to Mr. Kalulu Kyatengwa that his life would revolve around driving towards Lyon for as long as his kids remained at the club. At this point, the family’s connection to Olympique Lyonnais Academy turned their daily routine into a shared mission.

Every member of the household had a role. Aldo, Gédéon, Pierre, and Joseph focused on impressing their parents with their dedication on the field. Meanwhile, their father took on the demanding task of driving them to and from the academy, ensuring they were always on time for training. After each trip, he would return to his regular business.

The Kalulu family’s commitment was a true team effort, fueled by their shared passion for football and unwavering support for each other. Chantal Kyatengwa, the devoted mother of the Kalulu brothers, often accompanied her husband on trips to the Olympique Lyonnais Academy. While he drove back to tend to other responsibilities, Chantal stayed behind, watching her sons train with pride and care. Her commitment went beyond mere support—she willingly put her own life on hold to ensure her boys were well-monitored and thriving. Chantal’s sacrifices played a pivotal role in shaping the disciplined and determined athletes her sons would become.

Path to Fame:

The years between 2018 and 2020 marked a major turning point for Pierre Kalulu. During this period, he realized that success required intense focus, speed, agility, alertness, strength, and bravery. Kalulu worked tirelessly to develop these traits, earning comparisons to Nelson Semedo for his athleticism and versatility. Progressing through Lyon’s youth ranks, he eventually became a standout with the Under-19s team.

Fully committed to his career, Kalulu aimed to follow in the footsteps of players like Houssem Aouar and Nabil Fekir, who rose from the academy and were thriving in Lyon’s senior squad. With his sights set on joining the first team under coach Rudi Garcia, Kalulu embraced football as his sole focus, determined to make it to the top. This dedication would soon pave the way for his rise to professional stardom.

Finally, the Kalulu family’s hard work paid off as Pierre earned a senior contract. In June 2018, he was promoted to Lyon’s reserve team, joining rising stars like Bruno Guimarães (DM), Maxwel Cornet, and Karl Toko Ekambi. It was a proud moment for Chantal and Kyatengwa to see their third son step into senior football. On that day, CAA Stellar, a top sports agency (representing the likes of Omar Marmoush and Kobbie Mainoo), finalized a deal that marked Pierre’s official entry into professional football. This milestone brought not only pride but also financial rewards, as Pierre began earning the wages of a professional player.

In the summer of 2020, AC Milan’s new head coach, Stefano Pioli, wasted no time in securing Pierre Kalulu from Lyon. Kalulu signed a contract until 2025 with the goal of challenging Simon Kjær and Fikayo Tomori for a spot in central defence. As a versatile defender, he was also expected to compete with Davide Calabria and Diogo Dalot, who was on loan from Manchester United at the time. Kalulu quickly lived up to the coach’s expectations, establishing himself as a key player at the club. His hard work paid off, helping AC Milan win the Serie A 2021–22 title. In the summer of 2024, Kalulu made a move to Juventus, seeking a more established starting role with the club. The rest, as they say, is history.

Love Life:

When Pierre Kalulu joined AC Milan, fans quickly noticed how dedicated he was to his sport. Over time, he seemed to focus entirely on football, staying away from public relationships during his off-hours. In a new YouTube series called On the Road, created by AC Milan’s official channel, Kalulu was asked a personal question:

“What do you say about the possibility of having a wife, and kids, Pierre?”

When asked about the possibility of having a wife and children, Pierre Kalulu shared his thoughts:

“Right now, I am free. For me, love isn’t something you search for, it’s something that comes. I can definitely see myself as a father, and I would love to have a family. My brother is about to have a daughter, and it’s a beautiful thing.

“I’ll be the best uncle in the world. I’ll give everything for my niece. I have a WhatsApp group with my family. We talk about everything, not just football, and give each other advice. It feels strange not seeing them like I used to. I miss them a bit. They haven’t been able to come to San Siro yet, but when they see it full, it’s incredible. This year, I’ll try to bring them.”

Personality:

In Turin, Italy, Pierre Kalulu is admired not just for his skills on the pitch but also for his exemplary character off it. Locals and teammates alike often speak highly of his composed demeanor and professionalism. Since his arrival in Italy, Kalulu has stayed clear of controversies—no incidents, dramas, or fights have tainted his reputation.

Those who know Pierre personally, whether in Milan or Turin, describe him as humble and grounded. He’s the type who always responds with kindness and gratitude, earning the respect of everyone around him. But once he steps onto the field, under the guidance of Thiago Motta, the calm and composed Kalulu transforms. He becomes a fearless defender—a determined African warrior who fights relentlessly to uphold the honour of the Juventus jersey.

Lifestyle:

Pierre Kalulu leads a life that’s both humble and adventurous. While he’s not one to flaunt his wealth on social media—be it exotic cars or the 2.5 million euros he earns annually with Juventus—he has a soft spot for cozy desert escapes. One of his favorite pastimes is creating serene adventures, often involving his beloved camel rides under the vast desert skies. For Kalulu, it’s less about luxury and more about connecting with the quiet beauty of nature.

Untold Facts:

In this final part of Pierre Kalulu’s biography, we’ll share some lesser-known facts about him. Let’s dive in!

FC25 Profile:

Pierre Kalulu is an underrated footballer. He brings a mix of movement, power, skill, defending, and mentality to the game. His standout qualities are his jumping and speed—key traits for a modern-day central defender. An overall rating of 83 would do him more justice, while his potential rating seems fair. For FC25 career mode fans, Kalulu is a top pick, offering versatility as both a center-back and right-back. His qualities are reminiscent of Trevoh Chalobah and Reece James.

Salary Breakdown:

When compared to his Juventus teammates, Pierre Kalulu’s earnings rank relatively low on the wage scale. According to Capology, a reliable source for player salaries, Kalulu takes home €49,231 weekly and €2,560,000 annually. In contrast, Juventus’ top earners include Dusan Vlahovic at €427,308 per week, Bremer with €178,077, and Douglas Luiz earning €160,192 weekly. Even younger players like Kenan Yildiz (€56,923), Weston McKennie (€61,731), and Khephren Thuram (€71,154) have higher wages than Kalulu. Despite this, Pierre remains focused, letting his performance on the pitch speak louder than his paycheck.

Pierre Kalulu Religion:

It’s likely that Pierre Kalulu identifies as a Christian based on the meaning of his surname, which is said to mean “Gift of God” and has African Christian origins. Additionally, one of his brothers is named Gédéon, a Christian name that means “Hewer of Trees” or “Mighty Warrior” in Hebrew, which could hint at a religious influence in the family. However, Pierre has never publicly confirmed his religious beliefs and his social media doesn’t provide any clear indication of his faith. He has chosen to keep this aspect of his life private despite the interest surrounding his personal beliefs.

End Note:

Pierre Kalulu’s journey to becoming a professional footballer has to do with hard work and the sacrifices of his parents, Chantal and Kalulu Kyatengwa. His mother, Chantal, hails from Likasi, in the former Congo-Léopoldville (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), while his father, Kalulu Kyatengwa, is from Kabimba in the Belgian Congo (now part of the DRC). Both are Congolese by nationality, and their roots have shaped the family’s rich heritage.

Growing up alongside his brothers, Aldo, Gédéon, and Joseph, football was a central part of their lives. Early on, their parents were deeply committed to their children’s success. Kalulu Kyatengwa, their father, was the driving force, literally, as he would drive his sons to the Lyon academy, ensuring they never missed training. Chantal, their mother, often stayed behind, putting her own life on hold to support her children, watching them play and guiding them with her constant presence.

All of Pierre’s brothers pursued professional football careers, with Aldo, Gédéon, and Joseph following in his footsteps. The Kalulu family is one of a kind, a household built on great brotherhood and a shared love for the game. Yes, there are players like James McAtee and Archie Gray who come from great football families, but it’s rare to find a family where all four sons go through a standard academy like Lyon, become professionals and achieve success in football. The Kalulus are a shining example of what can be accomplished when family support, dedication, and passion align.

Appreciation Note:

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Pierre Kazeye Rommel Kalulu Kyatengwa’s story. Our team strives to bring fairness to every football story, especially those of French footballers with African heritage, like Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konaté. If you notice anything that seems off in this article about the rising defender who deserves a call-up to Didier Deschamps‘ French team, please let us know. In the comments section, we’d also love to hear your thoughts on Kalulu, his career, and his impressive journey.