Lucas Ocampos Keeps Reaching New Heights With His Play This Season

Lucas Ocampos has established himself as one of LaLiga’s top players during the current season. Even though he might not get a big spotlight due to the fact that he plays for Sevilla – in comparison to someone featuring for Real Madrid, Barcelona or Atletico Madrid – he has been able to stand out among his peers in what has been his first year in Spain’s top-tier league.

The Argentinian winger joined Los Nervionenses from Olympique Marseille during last year’s transfer window and has already established himself as one of the club’s most impactful players. He can play on both flanks with equal ease, but he has been thriving on the right of late. He was doubtful for Thursday’s contest against Betis, but he ended playing a big part in the team’s win.

It seems as if the three-month hiatus didn’t prevent Ocampos from making an impact. He needed just 10 minutes to announce his presence against Real Betis. However, he saved the best for the second half. The former Marseille star bagged the first goal and set up the second one with a lovely assist to Fernando. In the end, Ocampos played a pivotal role during his side’s 2-0 win over Los Verdiblancos in a new edition of the Seville derby.

Where are these goalscoring exploits coming form?

Those goalscoring efforts are nothing new for Ocampos, though. The 25-year-old midfielder has 11 goals in 23 Liga appearances this season. He ranks as the team’s top scoring threat ahead of more established names such as Luuk de Jong, Munir El Haddadi or even Ever Banega. Banega was the team’s designated penalty taker until a while ago. Ocampos has taken that role away from him as well.

A winger with 11 goals seems like something common in football these days. However, it must be said Ocampos’ previous season-high was nine goals in 31 appearances for Marseille back in the 2017-18 season. He found the back of the net just four times in 34 outings last term for the French giants. The Argentina international – who has scored twice in three matches with La Albiceleste – seems to have discovered a new gear in his play this season. Many are crediting Monchi for “discovering” another low-cost gem.

Time will tell what is going to be Ocampos’ ceiling. One thing is certain, though. The Argentina international has looked impressive for Sevilla this season. Based on what he has done this season, he should be considered as one of the biggest surprises in the competition when it comes to individual performances.