Ilyes Housni’s Nancy revival reflected in standout Ligue 2 statistics

Ilyes Housni appears to have found the right setting to relaunch his career, with the 21-year-old making an encouraging start to the Ligue 2 season after joining AS Nancy-Lorraine from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

The Morocco international was once regarded as one of Paris Saint-Germain’s most promising attacking talents, but his development had stalled during three difficult seasons. His spells away from Paris did not allow him to consistently show his full ability.

Nancy has provided a fresh start. Housni has been used in a hybrid role between number 10 and false nine, allowing him to drop into midfield, combine with team-mates and find spaces between the lines. The system has brought his technical qualities to the fore and given him a greater influence on matches.

Strong creative numbers

Data’Scout’s figures underline the impact Housni has made when compared with other Ligue 2 attackers.

His score of 92 for expected assists (xA) highlights his ability to create opportunities, while his mark of 90 for passes leading to a shot also places him among the strongest performers in that category.

Housni has also impressed with his ability to move play forward. Data’Scout gives him scores of 82 for passes into the final third and 82 for passes received. His pace when carrying the ball is another notable strength, with a maximum-speed score of 95.

His other Data’Scout scores are:

– 95 for maximum speed – 92 for expected assists – 90 for passes leading to a shot – 82 for passes into the final third – 82 for passes received – 82 for distance covered – 67 for passes into the penalty area – 44 for through-balls – 41 for successful dribbles

The Data’Scout scale indicates that a score of 85 means a player performs better than 85% of Ligue 2 players in that particular category.

The statistics are supported by Housni’s performances on the pitch. He appears more mature in his decision-making and capable of repeating his efforts throughout a game, suggesting he has developed both physically and mentally.

His value does not depend solely on finishing. He can drop deep, accelerate, operate in tight areas and create chances for team-mates, giving him several ways to influence a match.

At 21, Housni is still at the beginning of his time with Nancy. If his current momentum continues over the coming weeks, the former Paris Saint-Germain player could emerge as one of Ligue 2’s attacking discoveries this season.

Housni is under contract with AS Nancy-Lorraine until 30 June 2029. His market value is estimated at 700,000 euros by Transfermarkt.

AS Nancy-Lorraine’s next fixture is against Rodez in the seventh round of the French Ligue 2 championship. The listed odds are 2.85 for a Nancy win, 3.40 for a draw and 2.00 for a Rodez victory.