Johann Louvel, a respected youth coach who oversaw Kaïl Boudache at Nice, appeared on RMC’s After Lyon podcast to highlight the Algerian youngster’s Mahrez‑like profile.
The 20‑year‑old became Lyon’s first summer signing, penning a five‑year deal after leaving Nice – the club where he broke into senior football in a Europa League clash against Go Ahead Eagles in January.
Now at Lyon, under Paulo Fonseca’s careful guidance, Boudache grabs every chance, notably lighting up the right flank against Anderlecht in the Conference Cup, prompting early Mahrez comparisons.
An already impressive and steadily rising game volume
Louvel recalls, “You don’t need players who excel everywhere; you need those whose strengths far outstrip the average. Mahrez showed that with his first touch and explosiveness. Boudache mirrors that – he may have gaps, but his speed and one‑on‑one ability are above‑average. He arrived strong with ball control, yet needed work on transition and off‑the‑ball movement. Today his game volume is impressive.” In my view, Boudache could become Lyon’s next creative spark.
He adds, “He’s a good kid, always smiling, hungry to improve and loves football. He dribbles with joy, seeks one‑on‑one battles – exactly the traits clubs crave today.”
Since the season began, Boudache has featured in nine matches, starting three, totalling 341 minutes across all competitions. Though his stats are still blank, Fonseca lauds his courage, individual initiative, speed, and especially his defensive contribution after the 16 September win over Anderlecht, calling him technically gifted.