Rémi Himbert, 17, scores on first OL start as rapid rise continues | OneFootball

At 17, Rémi Himbert marked his first OL start with a goal in the 4-2 win over PAOK, accelerating his rise from the academy.

According to L'Équipe, his 33rd minute curler earned a Europa League start after injuries and ineligibility up front, with Pavel Sulc out and Endrick not eligible. A lively cameo at Young Boys a week earlier had already impressed.

Team-mate Khalis Merah, 18, also scored his first professional goal against PAOK and said he copied Himbert’s finish.

Himbert said he had practised the move in training and dedicated his celebration to Memphis Depay. He also noted he has exams next week.

He reflected that two and a half weeks ago he was playing in the Coupe Gambardella and had expected to feature there again this weekend. He felt strong training displays helped earn minutes and viewed the start as a reward.

Last season he was still with the U19s and, having not played senior football, the plan was to develop with the reserves at first. He said the U17 World Cup in November accelerated his progress and that he returned mid-season feeling like another player, now keen to stay with the pros.

He has 34 France youth caps and 11 goals. Paulo Fonseca praised his intelligence and movement, and talks over his first professional deal are described as very advanced.

Source: L'Équipe