From Swiss Army Knife to Deadly Weapon: The Unpredictable Transformation of Pavel Sulc at OL

Paulo Fonseca is facing a challenging season as he navigates various issues at Lyon. With numerous players leaving during the summer transfer window and several injuries, the former AC Milan coach is exploring creative solutions. At the striker position, he can rely on Martin Satriano, who joined from Racing Club de Lens late in the transfer window, but it’s not enough for the long term given the multiple competitions ahead. The Lyon staff has found a versatile option in Pavel Sulc, who’s been playing as a central forward.

Sulc arrived this summer after a successful stint at Viktoria Plzen, and the Czech international, signed for €7.5 million, expressed his eagerness to embrace the opportunity. He stated, “I can promise I will give my all on the pitch.” Throughout his performances, Sulc has shown determination, even if he hasn’t always executed perfectly. Ahead of the match against Basel in the Europa League, he mentioned, “Whether I come off the bench or start, I’m always at 100%. I hate losing; it’s in my nature.”

Versatile and Valued

His attitude has been appreciated within the club, helping him find his place in the team. In his 13 appearances across all competitions, he has started six games but is yet to establish himself as a key player. Nonetheless, he has been working hard to integrate quickly. He even requested his teammates frequently speak to him in French to enhance his understanding and bond with the group. On the field, he’s proving to be a versatile player, although he prefers his main position.

“My position is number 10, where I feel most comfortable. I can position myself between defenders and stay close to the goal,” he noted. However, he readily adapts to playing on the wing or at the forefront of Lyon’s attack, as seen in his twelfth appearance against Strasbourg. Despite his efforts to press, it was clear the position wasn’t his preference.

Lyon’s Top Scorer This Season

In contrast, he excelled in the match against Paris FC, playing as a false number 9 and scoring twice, including a beautiful chip shot in the 58th minute. He was pivotal in the match, contributing to the expulsion of De Smet from Paris at the 67th minute. This performance should boost his confidence, even if it wasn’t his favorite position. The 24-year-old has provided two assists and scored five goals this season, making him the current top scorer for Lyon—a remarkable surprise. Fonseca appreciates this contribution.

Speaking to the press, he mentioned, “Pavel Sulc played well; he’s an effective player who creates opportunities. He’s capable of reading the game well. We’ve had good matches with him as a false nine. Although we missed Malick and lack options, we scored three goals in the last game and two against Strasbourg. I believe in all my players.” Sulc, enjoying his time in Lyon and often sharing videos with his cat on Instagram, looks forward to maintaining his positive momentum in the upcoming match against Brest on Sunday.