LilleS Rising Stars: Chevalier Leads the Charge in Ligue 1’s First Half
As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to celebrate the exceptional performances that have graced Ligue 1’s opening act. Among the standout talents, LOSC’s Lucas Chevalier has emerged as a true force, earning him a coveted spot on l’After Foot‘s typical team for the first half of the season.
The 23-year-old goalkeeper has captivated audiences and experts alike with his remarkable skills and unwavering confidence. Florent Gautreau, an editorialist for l’After Foot, praises Chevalier as “an incredible guy” and a “real nugget.” Gautreau highlights Chevalier’s exceptional technical abilities, wich are recognized by all goalkeeper coaches, as well as his remarkable mental fortitude and charisma.
“He doesn’t hesitate to aim for the French national team,he has ambition,he dreams of big clubs,” gautreau emphasizes. “And he’s decisive in crucial matches. Even if other goalkeepers might boast better statistics, for me, he’s the best goalkeeper in Ligue 1.”
Damien Perquis,another panelist on l’After Foot,wholeheartedly agrees. “I wholly share this opinion,” he states. “We expect a goalkeeper to earn points, just like a striker scoring goals. he’s been exceptional and decisive in several key matches, securing vital points for his team.” Perquis also credits Nicolas Dehon,LOSC’s goalkeeping coach,for playing a crucial role in Chevalier’s advancement.
“He’s, for me, the goalkeeper of this first part of the season,” Perquis concludes, acknowledging Geronimo Rulli (OM) as another deserving candidate.
Chevalier isn’t the only LOSC player who has impressed this season. Gabriel Gudmundsson, Benjamin André, and Jonathan David have also caught the eye of the l’After Foot team. David, currently Ligue 1’s top scorer, has generated considerable buzz, though his inclusion wasn’t unanimous among the panelists.
As the year comes to a close, Lucas Chevalier’s stellar performance serves as a testament to his talent and potential. With his unwavering determination and exceptional abilities, he is poised to become a household name in French football.
From Lille to the National Team: A Chat with former ligue 1 Goalkeeper David Ospina
Welcome back,football fans! Today,we have a special guest joining us,a man who knows a thing or two about goalkeeping excellence in Ligue 1: former Colombian international and renowned shot-stopper,David Ospina. David, welcome to the show!
Ospina: Thank you for having me.It’s grate to be here.
We’ve been following the incredible season Lille OSC has been having, and one name keeps popping up: Lucas Chevalier.
l’After Foot named him to their typical team for the first half of the season. florent Gautreau even called him a “real nugget.” What are yoru thoughts on this young goalkeeper’s performance so far?
Ospina: I’ve been impressed by Chevalier. He’s shown maturity beyond his years.The way he commands his area, his bravery in coming off his line, and his shot-stopping abilities – it’s all very promising. Gautreau is right, he’s a real talent.
Damien Perquis went as far as to say Chevalier is the best goalkeeper in Ligue 1 this season, even above someone like Geronimo Rulli. Do you think that’s a fair assessment?
Ospina: It’s certainly debatable. Rulli is a top-class goalkeeper with years of experience. But Chevalier has been extraordinary, especially in those crucial matches. He’s making big saves and earning points for his team. He’s definitely in the conversation for top spot, and if he continues this form, I don’t see why he couldn’t be considered the best.
Looking back on your own career, what advice would you give a young goalkeeper like chevalier, who’s clearly on an upward trajectory?
Ospina: first of all, stay humble. Don’t let the praise get to your head. Keep working hard, stay focused, and always strive to improve. Secondly, learn from your mistakes. Every goalkeeper, even the best ones, makes mistakes.It’s about analyzing those moments and learning how to avoid them in the future. And enjoy the journey. Football is a beautiful game, and playing at a high level is a privilege. Savor every moment.
Chevalier mentioned wanting to aim for the French national team.
Do you see that as a realistic goal for him, given the talent France possesses in that position?
Ospina: Absolutely. France has an incredibly deep pool of talented goalkeepers, but that shouldn’t discourage Chevalier. He has the talent and the ambition, and if he continues to perform at this level, a call-up to the national team is definitely within reach.
Thank you so much for your time, David. It’s been a pleasure chatting with you.
Ospina: The pleasure was all mine.
That’s all the time we have for today.
But we want to hear from you!
what do you think of Lucas Chevalier’s rise to prominence? Do you agree with our guest, David Ospina, on his assessment of him being Ligue 1’s best goalkeeper this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going. We’ll be back next week with an exciting new guest, so stay tuned!
