# Lacazette: 18 Goals and 6 Assists in Return to Lyon, Best Among Returning Players in Ligue 1 History

Lionel Lacazette’s return to Olympique Lyonnais has been nothing short of sensational. After leaving the club in 2019 to join Atalanta and later Paris Saint-Germain, Lacazette made a triumphant comeback to Lyon in the 2022-23 season. The 29-year-old has wasted no time in making his mark, scoring an impressive 18 goals and assisting 6 times in just 20 matches. This tally not only solidifies his status as one of the most productive players in Ligue 1 but also cements his place among the league’s all-time greats.

Lacazette’s performances this season have drawn comparisons to some of the most iconic players in Ligue 1 history, including Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry. His ability to consistently deliver in critical moments has made him a fan favorite once again. With Lyon currently sitting in fourth place in the table, Lacazette’s leadership and on-field brilliance have been instrumental in their resurgence. His chemistry with teammates like Alexandre Lacazette (no relation, unfortunately) and Moussa Dembele has been a joy to watch, and his work rate has inspired the entire team.

What makes Lacazette’s return even more remarkable is the context. He is widely regarded as one of the best players to ever return to a club after leaving. In Ligue 1 history, only a handful of players have achieved such a high number of goals and assists upon their return. To put things into perspective, Lacazette’s 18 goals in 20 matches equates to a goal every 2.22 matches, a rate that few players can match. Even Kylian Mbappe, who is widely considered one of the best players in the world, has struggled to maintain such a high goal-scoring average.

Lacazette’s leadership off the field has also been a factor in Lyon’s improved performance. His ability to motivate his teammates and his tactical awareness have made him a pivotal figure in the dressing room. The return of such a globally recognized star has not only boosted Lyon’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League but has also reignited the passion of the club’s fans, who have been waiting for a star to call their own since Zidane’s departure in 2006.

As the season progresses, Lacazette’s legacy at Lyon continues to grow. With his combination of skill, experience, and leadership, it’s clear that he is rewriting the story of his career. Whether he stays at Lyon or moves to another top European club, one thing is certain: Lionel Lacazette is once again leading the charge, and football fans worldwide are lucky to witness his magic on the pitch.