Kenny Lala: The Unexpected Champion of Brest’s Cinderella Story

Kenny Lala’s journey from Olympiacos to Brest seemed like a step down from European competitions. At 30-plus, his dreams of international recognition appeared to be fading. However, fate had other plans for this seasoned fullback.

Joining Brest, a club more accustomed to relegation battles than glory, Lala couldn’t have anticipated the fairytale that was about to unfold. As 2024 dawned, Brest found themselves in an unprecedented position – vying for a Champions League spot.

Lala’s contribution to Brest’s success was immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in securing the club’s highest-ever league finish – third place in the 2023/24 season. This remarkable achievement guaranteed Brest automatic qualification for the Champions League. Lala’s consistency in defense was crucial, missing only one match due to suspension in a season where Brest conceded just 34 goals, the second-lowest in the league.

The 2024/25 campaign saw Brest continue to defy expectations in the Champions League. Under Eric Roy’s guidance, and with Lala’s steady presence, the team held their own against European giants. They secured victories against RB Salzburg and Sturm Graz, and even managed a draw with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen. Only Barcelona managed to truly outclass them in a 3-0 defeat.

While Brest’s domestic form in the following season couldn’t match their previous highs, it hardly diminished their extraordinary achievements in 2024. For both Lala and the club, it was a year of unprecedented success that will be etched in their memories and the annals of French football history.