PROFILE | Nicolás Tagliafico – Lyon’s Mr. Reliable evolves in World Cup year | OneFootball

The last couple of seasons at Lyon have been turbulent. With the Rhône club at the threat of relegation through poor performances and then being administratively relegated due to poor financial mismanagement, fans of Les Gones have been through the wringer. One player who has stuck at the club through all of this turbulence and been a dependable figure is Nicolás Tagliafico. 

During the early part of last season, when performances suffered under Pierre Sage, Tagliafico was one of the only players who could really say he covered himself in any glory with his performances. The Argentina international defender has always been reliable and continued to perform when the team was in a difficult period. This was displayed with three goals and three assists from left back in 25 Ligue 1 appearances despite his own challenges with injury and suspension. 

Under the management of Paulo Fonseca, Tagliafico’s role remains similar. The 33-year-old still plays a nuanced role in attack and is expected to push forward when opportunities allow. Nevertheless, in defence, he is tasked with managing open spaces on the left flank, which more often than not, he manages with aplomb. Additionally, his experience has proved valuable in games where a more defensive option is required compared to his counterpart, Abner, who is more attack-minded.

A busy summer for Talgliafico

Whilst playing a more reserved and defensive role under Fonseca, this season Tagliafico has been tasked with inverting into a more central position when OL have played with three at the back. As an auxiliary central defender, the Argentinian has shown great awareness to play a more reserved role. 

As a World Cup winner, the former Ajax defender has experience and a winning mentality, which is vital in the Lyon dressing room. They almost lost his presence when his contract expired at the end of last season. The full back officially left the club when his contract expired, keen to try something new. However, with no opportunities presenting themselves, the defender decided rejoining OL was the best step. Les Gones will be happy he made that decision as he continues to be a key figure for the Rhône club. Consistency could prove key for the 33-year-old as he hopes to maintain momentum for club and country as Argentina defend their crown as world champions at the World Cup in 2026.

GFFN | Liam Wraith