LYON, France – Pavel Šulc is back in contention for Olympique Lyonnais and, crucially, for the Czech Republic national team, providing a significant boost for both club and country. The forward returned to the pitch Thursday in Lyon’s Europa League second leg against Celta Vigo, marking his first appearance after a five-game absence due to injury. This appearance fulfills a condition set by the Czech Republic, ensuring his availability for the upcoming World Cup qualifying playoff against Ireland.
Šulc came on as a substitute in the 67th minute against Celta Vigo, shortly after the Spanish side took the lead. While Lyon ultimately fell short in the competition, losing the tie after a 1-1 draw in the first leg and a subsequent defeat in the return match, manager Paulo Fonseca highlighted the positive impact of Šulc and Afonso Moreira’s return. “With the arrival of Pavel Šulc and Afonso Moreira, we started to be more dangerous in attack,” Fonseca told the club’s television channel. “We were getting into promising situations, but we weren’t able to take advantage of two or three really good chances. We took a lot of risks and conceded a second goal.”
The return of Šulc, Lyon’s leading scorer, alongside Moreira, represents a welcome injection of attacking quality for Fonseca’s side. Both players have been sidelined since February, leaving a void in Lyon’s forward line. The timing of Šulc’s return is particularly important, as he was a doubt for the crucial World Cup playoff match. Generální manažer českých reprezentací Pavel Nedvěd confirmed that Šulc needed to play at least one match for Lyon to be eligible for selection, a condition now met.
Thursday’s match wasn’t without its challenges for Lyon. The team played almost the entire second leg with ten men after Moussa Niakhaté was sent off in the 19th minute. Despite the numerical disadvantage and the eventual loss, Fonseca praised his team’s effort. “We played well, the red card was a key moment in the tie. Playing in Europe for so long with ten men is incredibly difficult, especially since Celta is a really good team. I can’t fault the players, they gave it their all,” Fonseca said.
Another Czech player, Adam Karabec, was an unused substitute in the match. However, the focus remains on Šulc’s successful return to action. His availability provides Czech Republic manager Jaroslav Šilhavý with a significant option ahead of the vital playoff against Ireland. Šulc’s goal-scoring prowess will be crucial as the Czech Republic aims to secure a spot in the World Cup tournament.
Beyond the Europa League exit, Lyon faces a quick turnaround, with a Ligue 1 clash against AS Monaco scheduled for Sunday. This match will provide Šulc with another opportunity to build his fitness and sharpness ahead of international duty. Fonseca will likely manage Šulc’s minutes carefully, balancing the need to reintegrate him into the team with the importance of ensuring he remains fit for the Czech Republic.
The return of Šulc, alongside Moreira, addresses a significant weakness in Lyon’s attack. For weeks, Fonseca has lacked reliable options in wide areas, and the reintroduction of these key players offers a much-needed boost. While neither player is yet fit enough to play a full 90 minutes, their presence on the bench provides Fonseca with valuable tactical flexibility.
Adding to the positive news for Lyon, Ernest Nuamah has also returned to full training after a lengthy absence due to a cruciate ligament tear suffered last April. While a return to the squad for the Monaco match isn’t expected, his recovery represents another step forward for Fonseca’s team. However, Ruben Kluivert and Ainsley Maitland-Niles remain sidelined and are not expected back before the international break.
The situation highlights the challenges Fonseca has faced with injuries this season. The absences of key players have undoubtedly impacted Lyon’s performances, but the gradual return of these stars offers hope for a strong finish to the campaign. Šulc’s return, in particular, is a major positive, not only for Lyon but also for the Czech Republic’s World Cup aspirations.
Lyon will need to quickly refocus after the Europa League disappointment. The match against Monaco represents an important opportunity to climb the Ligue 1 table and secure a European qualification spot for next season. Šulc’s contribution, even from the bench, could prove vital in achieving that goal.
What’s Next: Pavel Šulc will join the Czech Republic squad ahead of their World Cup qualifying playoff against Ireland. Lyon will travel to Monaco for a Ligue 1 match on Sunday, March 22nd.
