Lucas Da Cunha's Nice struggles explained by Dante

Dante has linked Lucas Da Cunha’s difficult spell at Nice to fierce competition and an unfavourable moment in the club’s recruitment cycle. The former Nice captain said the midfielder’s ability was clear, but opportunities became harder to find as several attacking players arrived at the same time.

Da Cunha’s breakthrough with France came on Monday, when Zinédine Zidane handed him his senior debut in the 1-0 victory over Belgium. Operating in front of the defence alongside Eduardo Camavinga and Maghnès Akliouche, the 25-year-old Como captain impressed with his composure, technical accuracy and control of the game. He has also reached the Champions League with the Italian club this season.

That progress contrasts with his time on the Côte d’Azur. Nice signed Da Cunha in 2020, but he did not establish himself and experienced a series of loans and setbacks before leaving permanently for Italy three years later. He made only 11 appearances for the club. The competition included players such as Justin Kluivert, Amine Gouiri and Calvin Stengs, reducing his path into the team.

Dante said Da Cunha continued to work intensely even when he was not selected. He also highlighted the player’s willingness to take risks, courage and understanding of the game. For the retired Brazilian, Da Cunha’s France progress is therefore not a surprise, even if it took place after Nice rather than during his time there.