Is Veteran Forward Florian Sotoca’s Time at Lens Coming to an End?

Florian Sotoca, the 34-year-old striker for Lens, has had a remarkable late-career surge since joining the club in 2019. After years in the lower divisions, Sotoca flourished under manager Franck Haise, becoming a key player in Lens’ successful campaigns.

In the 2022/23 season, Sotoca played a crucial role in Lens’ second-place finish. The following year, he contributed significantly to the team’s Europa Conference League qualification, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists across all competitions.

However, the 2024/25 season has seen a decline in Sotoca’s prominence. Under new manager Will Still, who replaced Haise, the veteran forward has struggled to maintain his previous form. He has yet to score and has only one assist to his name this season.

Still has reduced Sotoca’s playing time, starting him in only four matches since being substituted at halftime against Rennes early in the season. This decrease in minutes suggests a potential shift in the team’s strategy and reliance on the aging striker.

Despite these challenges, Sotoca has a history of defying expectations. As Lens transitions into a new era, 2025 could be a pivotal year for the late-blooming forward. It remains to be seen whether he can adapt to a reduced role or if his time at the club is coming to an end.