Recruited at a smart price by Olympique Lyonnais during the last summer transfer window, Ruben Kluivert arrived with the label of a smart bet. At 24, the defender was expected to bring depth and versatility to a defensive sector in reconstruction. However, his first weeks in the Lyon jersey quickly dampened the hopes placed in him. Aligned mainly on the right side, Kluivert seemed lost, often late and unable to impose his rhythm.
His complicated debut was symbolized by a very delicate performance against Nice, where he was regularly outpaced and put in difficulty in the one-on-one. This match was unfortunately not an isolated case, since other matches confirmed his difficulties in adapting to the level and demands of Ligue 1. Criticized by supporters and relegated to the hierarchy, Kluivert then seemed closer to the status of a failed recruit than that of a bargain.
Ruben Kluivert wants to progress even further!
But football sometimes offers unexpected opportunities. The departure of Moussa Niakhaté at the CAN reshuffled the cards in central defense, offering Kluivert a chance to get back on track. Repositioned in a more axial role and with more continuity, the Dutchman was able to respond. More sober, more concentrated and above all fairer in his interventions, he gradually gained confidence and credibility. This rise in power was particularly illustrated during the solid collective performance against Monaco, where Kluivert displayed new serenity and authority.
His redemption is now beneficial for OL, who find in him a reliable and unexpected solution to stabilize their defense. Present at a press conference this Friday two days before facing LOSC, the Batavian defender gave the keys to this great revenge on his detractors and aspires to progress even further in the future: “ It took me a little time to adapt, but now I feel good, I’m more confident and I can finally show what I can do, what I’m worth, even if I still have to prove and progress. The staff gave me a lot of confidence, it’s very important for a player. I progressed defensively, I learned a lot from the coach and my teammates defensively. I’m very happy that this is being noticed, even if I still have a lot to prove. This is only the beginning and I will continue to improve. » From a player in difficulty to a useful element of the rotation, Ruben Kluivert perfectly embodies the capacity for resilience and adaptation that Lyon needed this season.
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– UPDATE
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