An impressive performance by Andrija Bulatovic in his first start for Racing Club de Lens has captured the attention of fans and media alike. The young Montenegrin midfielder played the full 90 minutes in a crucial 2-1 victory against FC Nantes, showcasing his talent and potential in the highly competitive Ligue 1.
Bulalovic, who joined Lens from Buducnost this past summer, was given a chance to shine due to the absence of captain Adrien Thomasson. Coach Pierre Sage praised the 18-year-old’s performance and noted that he had been waiting for the right moment to include him in the starting lineup. “He is a player I adore,” Sage stated after the match, highlighting Bulatovic’s contributions both on and off the field since his arrival.
Impact on the Field
Bulatovic’s debut was marked by his aggression in regaining possession and his ability to create scoring opportunities. According to reports from L’Équipe, he demonstrated impressive skills in executing set pieces and maintaining composure under pressure. His performance has been described as “completely successful,” especially given the circumstances of his first start.
Sage remarked on the importance of providing opportunities to younger players, stating, “We wanted to give a chance to those who have had less playing time. We knew Bula would impress when he got the opportunity.” This confidence in Bulatovic proved well-founded, as he not only filled the void left by Thomasson but also made a lasting impression on fans and analysts.
Future Prospects
The media has begun to highlight Bulatovic as one of the pleasant surprises of recent transfer windows. Signed for just over €2 million last February, he was initially seen as a gamble given his youth and inexperience. However, his consistent progress since joining Lens has shifted perceptions.
Sage, who took over as coach this summer, emphasized Bulatovic’s unique qualities: “He is a bright talent who covers several positions and reads the game well. His technical level is above average, and he has a great shot, especially from set pieces.” His infectious enthusiasm and commitment during training have also caught the eye of his teammates.
Bulatovic’s standout performance against Nantes has led to speculation about his continued role in the team, especially with Thomasson expected to return for the upcoming match against OGC Nice. Nonetheless, Bulatovic’s impressive display may prompt Sage to reassess his lineup strategy moving forward.
With the upcoming African Cup of Nations, which will see Mamadou Sangare representing Mali, there is a significant opportunity for Bulatovic to establish himself further in the squad. Given his recent performance, it is likely that he will not spend much time on the bench.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the young midfielder to see how he capitalizes on this breakthrough moment in his career.
