Since the start of the season, Olympique Lyonnais (OL) has excelled in defense. After a turbulent summer and a low-cost transfer market, the club has silenced critics with five victories in the first six league matches. Despite two recent losses against Toulouse and Nice, the team can take comfort in their three consecutive wins in the Europa League. Aiming to bounce back against Strasbourg this Sunday at 8:45 PM IST, coach Paulo Fonseca’s squad will welcome a new teammate, Hans Hateboer. Recruited unexpectedly last week, the Dutchman joins Lyon after making just 21 minutes of play this season with Rennes, following a disappointing previous year of 28 appearances. Now at Lyon, the 31-year-old international looks to regain the form he had at Atalanta Bergamo.
2021: A Challenging Year for Hans Hateboer
In Italy, Hans Hateboer was well-regarded. As a key player for Atalanta under Gian Piero Gasperini, he quickly became the first-choice right wing-back after joining from FC Groningen in 2017. His athleticism and technical skills made him a fan favorite. According to Atalanta France, “we have great memories of Hateboer. He was one of the two wing-backs, along with Gosens, who troubled many defenses. He could score, run, and defend… He was a core part of the locker room. His double against Valencia in the Champions League Round of 16 stands out as a highlight of Atalanta’s European campaign.”
Nicknamed “Cavallo Pazzo” (Crazy Horse) in Italy for his relentless effort, Hateboer faced a major setback in early 2021 due to an ankle injury that sidelined him for three months. The following season, another foot injury kept him off the pitch for 109 days. This challenging period impacted his career significantly: “after his foot injury in 2021, his level hasn’t been the same. Before, he was a constant threat with his speed and attacking ability. With his age and injuries, that might not be the case anymore.”
A Disappointing Spell at Rennes
Struggling with injuries, the versatile right-back became more of a luxury substitute during his last two seasons with Atalanta. In his final year, he played only seven matches as the team won the Europa League, but sought a new challenge afterward. Despite interest from several clubs, he joined Rennes in summer 2024 for less than three million euros, well below his market value of 18 million euros. Unfortunately, he failed to secure a foothold in a competitive squad.
Struggling to make an impact, Hateboer finished his first season at Rennes without any assists or goals in 26 appearances. As noted by Christophe Penven, a journalist covering Stade Rennais: “Hateboer came from Italy and was known to the new sporting director. He was expected to be a key player but hasn’t made a significant impact due to a decline in form and a challenging environment.”
Hateboer’s Opportunity to Revive His Career at Lyon
Still out of favor with Rennes’ coach at the start of the season, Hateboer played just 21 minutes. With a clear path out, he secured a loan to Olympique Lyonnais, who needed a player versatile enough to play in various defensive roles. This move could provide a fresh start for Hateboer. According to Penven, “he lacks confidence, and this move to Lyon could be a chance for redemption. He is fit but needs match experience. His re-entry was promising.”
Determined to prove his critics wrong, Hateboer now has the opportunity to shine in Lyon. Considering the recent performances of Ruben Kluivert and Ainsley Maitland-Niles, he may establish himself in the starting lineup, especially with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations affecting player availability. Although he has not yet spoken out since joining, Hans Hateboer might just make his debut this Sunday against Strasbourg. As coach Paulo Fonseca stated in a press conference: “he’s a player I admire, experienced and capable of playing multiple positions. He adds to our offensive play and plays with intensity. He is ready for Sunday.” Could this be the start of a successful chapter for Hateboer at Lyon? مستمر يحتاج دعمكم ”
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