News Focus
- The 20-year-old attacker completed a winter switch from Toulouse FC to Les Dogues
- Edjouma praises senior professionals Olivier Giroud and Thomas Meunier for guidance on and off the pitch
- Lille OSC stand one win away from booking a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League
- The French youth star featured in the Europa League for the first time in his career this term
- He labels his transfer to Stade Pierre-Mauroy as a significant career advance
As the Ligue 1 campaign reaches its final matchday, Lille OSC occupy a podium position and stand on the verge of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. Ahead of their crucial clash with AJ Auxerre, young forward Noah Edjouma spoke about his recent move to the northern club.
The 20-year-old joined Lille from Toulouse FC during the January transfer window. He describes his first months at the club as a period of intense learning and growth.
“I started playing immediately after I arrived, even though the team was not performing at its best at that time,” Edjouma explains. “I settled in quickly, though my minutes on the pitch have reduced slightly recently. I continue to improve every day.”
The attacker highlights the importance of experienced teammates in his adaptation. Veterans like Thomas Meunier and Olivier Giroud offer regular advice both during training and away from the pitch.
“They help me understand how to adapt to this environment,” he says. “They give tips about training sessions and matches. This support has really helped my mental strength.”
Edjouma describes Giroud as surprisingly relaxed. “People might expect him to be strict, but he is very calm. He does not act like a police officer. Instead, he offers advice to young players and helps us follow the rules.”
He also praises captain Benjamin André, calling him one of the most underrated footballers in the French top flight. “He maintains an excellent level every single season. This consistency across many years is truly remarkable.”
The striker admits the competition level at Lille exceeds that at his former club. “This is certainly a step up. It is exactly what I wanted. I know this club plays in Europe regularly. I even made my Europa League debut this season.”
He recalls his first away match in European competition at Aston Villa’s Villa Park. “The atmosphere was incredible. We tried everything to win, even though the result did not go our way. For me personally, playing in a Premier League stadium was amazing.”
Lille’s exit from the Europa League disappointed the squad, but their domestic form has improved dramatically. Edjouma identifies the victory against Angers on 22 February as the turning point.
“During our difficult period, we played well but missed small details,” he notes. “After the Angers match, the goals started flowing. We have maintained that high standard until now.”
Currently sitting in the top three, Lille control their own destiny heading into the final day. Edjouma insists the mood remains focused rather than relaxed.
“I would not call it relief,” he states. “The manager keeps us concentrated. He wants us present and alert. Our fate is in our hands, which is positive. If we win, we achieve our goal.”
When asked about his playing style, Edjouma emphasizes directness and pace. “I like to run behind defences and attack open spaces. I enjoy one-on-one situations and I have good close control. I also like creating chances for others.”
He names Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcus Rashford, Neymar Jr, and Ousmane Dembélé as his childhood inspirations. He also learns from current teammates Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Hakon Arnar Haraldsson.
“Training with high-quality players raises your level,” he says. “It makes everyone better.”
Looking ahead, the youngster targets regular playing time and a spot in the Champions League. “This competition would be new for me. I remember watching Lille beat Real Madrid in the Champions League before I joined. The club wants to hear that music again.”
“When you are young, you dream of playing in the biggest club competition in the world,” he adds. “I cannot wait for that opportunity.”
His immediate focus remains securing his place in the Lille squad. “I want to repay the confidence the club showed me from day one. I will give everything for this shirt.”