PROFILE | Pavel Šulc filling a Rayan Cherki-shaped hole at Lyon | OneFootball

Due to the financial restrictions that were placed on Lyon after they narrowly avoided administrative relegation by the DNCG, the Ligue 1 club were forced to adopt a new tactic when it came to recruiting players in the summer transfer window. There was a conscious effort to make low-risk signings with high potential or sign players with a previous record of high output. Pavel Šulc represented both. 

The Czech international attacking midfielder had a terrific season last year while playing for his former club, Viktoria Plzen. Scoring 11 goals and registering eight assists in 30 appearances in the Czech first division. His decisive abilities in the final third were pivotal. For just €10m, with his age profile (24 years old), and his high output considered, Šulc was a logical pick for OL.

Rayan Cherki left a huge void in the creative department at the Groupama Stadium following his transfer to Manchester City. The France international playmaker was the real creative force for Lyon in attack last term, with 12 goals and 20 assists in 44 games across all competitions. It would have been unreasonable to expect Šulc to fill the creative void left by the Frenchman on his own, but he has certainly played a big part in doing so; his efforts have been supplemented by the creativity shown by fellow signings Adam Karabec, Tyler Morton, and Afonso Moreira, all of whom have had strong starts to the season.

Eight goal contributions in Ligue 1 for Šulc

Playing both central and wide-right attacking roles, the attacking midfielder has had an immediate impact during his first six months with the seven-time Ligue 1 winners. In his first 15 appearances in the French top flight, the Czech international has scored six goals and registered two assists. He has also had a demonstrable impact in Europe too, with one goal and three assists. 

Whilst his goal threat and creativity are the aspects of his game that are felt the most, the attacking midfielder’s understanding with his teammates and his defensive output have also proven valuable. The playmaker has developed a strong understanding with Corentin Tolisso. Additionally, Šulc is a massive part of the way Lyon presses. He is effective at regaining possession in the final third with over three tackles, blocks and interceptions per 90. 

Šulc has only been at Lyon for six months, but if his impact so far is anything to go by, he could end up being the bargain they so sorely needed, given their continued precarious financial footing. 

GFFN | Liam Wraith