Angolan international Mbala N’Zola reflects on challenging RC Lens spell and eyes fresh start

Mbala N’Zola has spoken candidly about his turbulent season at RC Lens, admitting regret and disappointment after a loan spell that failed to meet expectations.

The Angolan international arrived from Fiorentina with hopes of making a significant impact in Ligue 1, but despite flashes of promise—including six goals in 21 league appearances—his time with the Sang et Or ended in frustration and confusion.

My season at Lens started well, even though, of course, that’s not how I wanted my adventure with the club to end, N’Zola told Foot Mercato. His early contributions hinted at potential, but the latter stages of his stint were marred by inconsistency, disciplinary concerns, and a gradual disappearance from the squad.

Still, N’Zola remains appreciative of the opportunity and the lessons drawn from his time in northern France.

This experience at a big, popular French club taught me a lot, particularly in terms of discipline, humility, and ego management, he said. The 28-year-old has used the past year to reflect, reshaping his approach on and off the pitch.

Throughout my adventure in the North, I have tried to pay even more attention to details, punctuality, and discipline. As I often say, there is no age limit to learning, and I have put things in place to be impeccable on these points in the future, N’Zola added.

The striker’s situation worsened following a suspension, after which his role within the team became uncertain.

N’Zola believes media speculation compounded the issue, and he found himself sidelined with little clarity.

I think that after my suspension, several stories, not always proven, came out in the media, he explained. I don’t know the reasons why I wasn’t playing with RC Lens anymore, because they told me about behavioral problems, but without giving me much more details.

Despite the opaque circumstances and a premature exit, N’Zola remains philosophical.

My lack of playing time and my separation from the squad were sometimes my fault, but I also think that factors I didn’t control didn’t help me in my gradual reintegration into the squad. But I don’t blame anyone and I take my share of responsibility, he said.

Now back at Fiorentina, where he is under contract until 2027, N’Zola is focused on reestablishing himself.

The most important thing now is to focus on the present and be impeccable, he concluded.

As interest from across Europe resurfaces, N’Zola appears ready to embrace the next chapter, fuelled by experience, self-awareness, and a desire to return stronger.