Road to Ligue 1: Diego Moreira (RC Strasbourg)

A first start for Strasbourg on Sunday evening marked Diego Moreira's return to Ligue 1 action since signing for Les Alsaciens from Premier League side Chelsea. The Belgian-born Portuguese U21 international previously spent six months at Olympique Lyonnais last season, where he would make seven appearances for Les Gones during the first half of the season.

From benfica to chelsea

Yet it all started at Benfica for Moriera: he signed his first professional contract with the Portuguese club in 2020 after playing his youth football in Belgium with Standard Liège. Moreira quickly established himself as a key player for the under-23 team. During the 2021–22 season, he was instrumental in Benfica's historic UEFA Youth League triumph. His standout performances, including a brace and two assists in a 4-0 quarter-final victory against Sporting, and a commanding display in the 6-0 final win over Red Bull Salzburg, marked him as a player of immense potential. His contributions helped Benfica win their first Youth League title, ending a long wait for European silverware since the 1961–62 European Cup.

In the summer of 2023, Moreira’s contract with Benfica expired, and he was snapped up by Premier League club Chelsea. The move was seen as a fresh start for the young winger, a chance to showcase his talent on one of the biggest stages in world football. He made his debut for Chelsea on 30 August 2023, starting in an EFL Cup match against AFC Wimbledon. However, with fierce competition for places at Stamford Bridge, the decision was made to send Moreira on loan to Lyon.

Lessons at lyon

Moreira arrived at Lyon in September 2023 on a season-long loan, eager to make his mark in one of Europe’s top leagues. However, the reality proved more difficult than expected. Despite his talent and promise, the young winger struggled to find his rhythm. Over nine appearances, Moreira failed to score or assist, and he found it challenging to adapt to the demands of Ligue 1. The period was marked by instability at the club, with Lyon going through three different managers—Laurent Blanc, Fabio Grosso, and Pierre Sage—during his brief stint.

"The club was in difficulty, and the pressure was stronger," Moriera explained. "It’s tough for everyone when the team isn’t winning, especially for a 19-year-old." Despite the challenges, Moreira remained positive, noting that the experience helped him mature both on and off the pitch.

"I learned a lot from Lacazette," he said, referring to Lyon’s seasoned striker. "He gave me a lot of advice." Moreira also highlighted the impact of other teammates like Mama Baldé, Rayan Cherki, Corentin Tolisso, and Anthony Lopes, whose experience and professionalism left a lasting impression on him. "Being around players with such experience, who have won titles, was invaluable," he shared. "It helped me grow."

Now, the winger is hoping to make an impact for Strasbourg under new English manager Liam Rosenior. He started in RCSA's home clash against Rennes on Sunday (3-1), which he'll hope marks a productive season in Alsace for the youngster. 

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