Who is Houssem Aouar? French star wanted by Arsenal and Liverpool

Martin Macdonald

Updated: 17 Nov 2021 13:37 CST
6 min read

‘I was told to drop Depay and Aouar’ – Ex-Lyon boss in stunning Juninho rant — © ProShots

Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar is by no means an unknown quantity in European football, but the young Frenchman will likely be thrust further into the limelight when he gets an inevitable move to one of the continent's elite.

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After emerging as an impressive creative force in Lyon's midfield, Aouar became the subject of interest from the Premier League.

Two summers ago, he came very close to joining Arsenal before the Gunners opted to go for Thomas Partey instead.

That failed transfer actually might have come too early for Aouar, who has matured into a better player after staying in Ligue 1.

So, what kind of player are we dealing with?

What position does Houssem Aouar play in?

Aouar plays as a central midfielder. This came come via a deep-lying role or further forward.

How good is Houssem Aouar?

Everyone seems to be waiting for Aouar's career to finally catch fire which will see bigger clubs around Europe queueing up for his signature.

Aouar was born in Lyon and came through the young ranks of the club, eventually becoming the golden boy of Les Gones and a fan favourite.

He made his first-team debut for the club in February of 2017 when he came on as a substitute in a Europe League fixture against AZ Alkmaar.

Aouar has stated that his role models are Zinedine Zidane and Juninho Pernambucano and this is reflected in his play as he is calm and composed in possession while holding a lovely command of the ball, particularly in tight areas.

His goal contributions could certainly improve as his best campaign in Ligue 1 came in 2018/19 when he scored seven goals and recorded seven assists.

Though he remains a creative force, these goal contribution stats have earned him some criticism over the years.

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Aouar probably became a known force in the mini tournament to decide the 2019 Champions League winners, as he excelled for Lyon as they reached the semi-final stage.

After Lyon eliminated Manchester City, Pep Guardiola said: "Houssem Aouar is a very good player. He is incredible.

"We talk a lot about (Tanguy) Ndombele, but Aouar is also excellent. He's always very calm with the ball at his feet, with an excellent technical quality.

"Lyon really has a very good team. There are young people full of quality and I think the team is in place tactically."

Which clubs are interested in Houssem Aouar?

In September 2020, Lyon President told the world that three big clubs were interested in Aouar.

Aouar has been linked with the likes of PSG, Manchester City, Juventus and more heavily linked with Arsenal and Liverpool, who remain the frontrunners for the player's signature.

North-London rivals Tottenham were linked with the player in the summer but a deal never materialised.

Our FootballTransfers' valuation algorithm values Aouar at €33 million.

Arsenal came close to signing Aouar two summers ago, but the player allegedly wanted guaranteed Champions League football which the Gunners could not provide at that time.