He had faded from the limelight somewhat, but is gradually returning to the forefront. After a difficult season at Juventus , Loïs Openda (26) is now a happy player. On loan at Olympique Lyonnais this summer, the Belgian centre-forward has regained the confidence that seemed to have deserted him in recent months.
Notably absent from Rudi Garcia's squad for the World Cup in the United States, the former RC Lens player now hopes to bounce back and showcase the qualities that took him to the pinnacle of European football.
"I looked for a place where I could get my career back on track, get some playing time and score goals," he explained, aware that he needed to leave Turin to rediscover his enjoyment of the game, in an interview with L'Équipe .
"I spoke often with Paulo Fonseca during the holidays. He wanted me and was instrumental in bringing me here. Right from the start, I met Matthieu (Louis-Jean, the sporting director), who was very clear. He went out of his way and did everything he could. I've rarely seen people so committed to a footballer.
"If I were in Matthieu's shoes, I would have given up. He fought right up until the very last day before I signed and showed me just how much the club, the management and everyone else wanted me here. I knew I would thrive here. My family has been made to feel very welcome. I'm in a healthy environment and I'm very happy with my choice."
Having started every one of the eight matches he has played since arriving in the Rhône region, Openda has already equalled his goal tally from last season (two in 34 matches). A great way to regain confidence for a player who could have joined the Premier League this summer, whilst Juventus reportedly wanted to push him across the Channel to secure a higher transfer fee.
But for Openda himself, the destination mattered less than what he could find there. "The most important thing for me was the sporting aspect," he emphasises.
