PROFILE | Rémy Cabella the experienced and effective element in Lille's exciting attacking line
Yesterday at 05:50 AM
A career that appeared to be at a standstill a few seasons ago was reborn for Rémy Cabella in the 2022-23 season. The Frenchman had a strong opening campaign with Lille OSC and continues to contribute in many respects as part of a rotation of exciting attacking options. Returning from a spell at Krasnodar in the Russian Premier League, few could have anticipated the resurgence the Ajaccio-born attacking midfielder has shown.
Returning to France on a free transfer, firstly at Montpellier and then at Lille a few months later in July 2022, little was expected from a man who'd fallen out of favour since the 2014 World Cup, a tournament which he was selected for following an injury to Frank Ribéry. Since joining Les Nordistes he has shown that he's still fit and eager to contribute, scoring seven goals while leading his side in assists (10) during his first season at the club.
Under Bruno Génésio, one could argue the veteran attacking midfielder has become a more well-rounded and multi-dimensional player than we've seen in quite some time. He's in the double digits for tackles won and possession won in the final third, while also boasting over 30 recoveries. His name hasn't shown up on the scoresheet much over the past couple of seasons, but that doesn't mean he's been invisible on the field.
Cabella’s final season in Ligue 1?
We've not seen him blow us away with many moments of magic, though he's found a way to remain helpful to a Lille squad that have continuously found ways to earn points in both Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League. Cabella isn't seeing as much of the ball as in past seasons, yet he boasts a high pass accuracy of over 80% and is into double-digits for chances created.
His contract is due to expire at the end of the current campaign and seeing as he'll be 35 by the time this season ends, it's entirely possible he may be playing his last few months for Les Dogues. Should the club choose to release him, Cabella's experience and leadership would still be of value to another Ligue 1 club. At the same time, Lille have been among the most consistent Ligue 1 sides this season thanks, at least in part, to Cabella. He may not be the youngest or most youthful attacker in Lille’s ranks, but he is still effective.
