After a sensational start to the season in La Liga, Cameroonian striker Karl Etta Eyong is experiencing a goal drought. At 22, the player who had attracted interest from FC Barcelona has not found the net since October 26. Six goals and three assists in his first ten matches with Villarreal and Levante, before a sudden dry spell: twelve matches without a single contribution.
What explains this decline? Several factors help to understand this loss of speed.
First, the pressure linked to a failed winter transfer may have weighed heavily on the young striker's shoulders. His transfer from Villarreal to Levante, motivated by more playing time, coincides with the start of his scoreless streak. The need to justify this transfer, adapt to a new tactical system and meet the expectations of a struggling club may have generated significant psychological pressure.
FC Barcelona's interest, although flattering, has become a source of stress. Each match has become a potential evaluation, scrutinized by the media and social networks, altering his spontaneity on the pitch.
Secondly, Levante's tactical system does not seem suited to Eyong's profile. At Villarreal, he played in a fluid attacking system that highlighted his impact and ability to exploit spaces. Levante, on the other hand, favors a more defensive and vertical game, offering less creative freedom to its attackers.
Finally, the physical and mental wear and tear of a first season in La Liga is taking its toll. After a strong start to the season, opponents have had time to study his game, reducing the element of surprise. The accumulation of matches has also weighed on his body, with more aggressive marking from opposing defenders.
The match against FC Barcelona represents an opportunity for Karl Etta Eyong to prove his worth and put an end to this negative spiral. It remains to be seen whether he can transform the pressure into motivation to revive his career. Other clubs are reportedly interested in the player, including Arsenal, Manchester United and Real Madrid. CSKA Moscow even made an offer of 30 million euros, which was turned down by the player who wants to stay in Europe.
