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Arsenal outcast Mathieu Debuchy seizing the moment with Saint-Etienne

By Marcel Dumas

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 07: Mathieu Debuchy of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the opening goal of the game during the UEFA Europa League group H match between Arsenal FC and BATE Borisov at Emirates Stadium on December 7, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 07: Mathieu Debuchy of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the opening goal of the game during the UEFA Europa League group H match between Arsenal FC and BATE Borisov at Emirates Stadium on December 7, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images) /
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If he continues his run of good play, Debuchy may still work his way into the French camp for the World Cup. Even if his name does not find it’s way onto Les Bleus final roster, his move to Saint-Etienne has revived his career.

When Mathieu Debuchy joined Arsenal in 2014, it was thought to be a good move for both club and player. Four years later, and the move left a bitter taste for all parties involved.

Having found himself moved down the pecking order, Debuchy worked on getting a transfer or release. Untimely, injuries and the emergence of Hector Bellerin had spoiled the French defender’s run with the Gunners. He knew he could still perform, he just needed the chance.

January saw Debuchy and Arsenal agree to a mutual termination of his contract. He decided on joining AS Saint-Etienne on a contract through the end of the season.

It appeared to be a good opportunity. Saint-Etienne needed help in turning their season around, and Debuchy needed a platform to build his World Cup case. Both parties were filling a need.

Debuchy failed to live up to expectations at Arsenal
Debuchy failed to live up to expectations at Arsenal /

One month in and both Saint-Etienne and Debuchy have to be pleased with the partnership. The defender capped an impressive first month for Les Verts with Ligue 1 player of the month honors. The honor was made all the sweeter as he finished ahead of PSG’s Neymar for the award.

Debuchy has shown he still has the skills that convinced Arsenal to bring him to London from Newcastle. His overlapping runs and ability to provide service into the box have added another dimension to Saint-Etienne’s attack. His defending has worked in stablizing the club’s backline. This has helped Les Verts move from relegation threatened to 11th in the league.

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He quickly endeared himself to the Stade Geoffroy Guichard faithful scoring in his debut against Amiens. He then became a fan favorite when his 90th minute strike rescued a draw against bitter rival Lyon. With his inclusion to the lineup, the French club has continued on a good run of results.

If he continues his run of good play, Debuchy may still work his way into the French camp for the World Cup. Experienced defenders that can contribute offensively are at a premium these days. When on his game, Debuchy checks that box. Even if his name does not find it’s way onto Les Bleus final roster, his move to Saint-Etienne has revived his career.

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At age 32 he could use this chance as a springboard to a more long-term opportunity. Perhaps an extension with Saint-Etienne will be on the cards. At the very least he is erasing the last four years from memory and writing a new chapter to his story along the way.

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