With Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé sidelined by injury, the French league has found a new hero.

Largely unknown before his transfer to Strasbourg from Spanish side Deportivo Alaves this summer, Joaquín Panichelli has taken Ligue 1 by storm.

The 23-year-old center forward has been pivotal to coach Liam Rosenior’s youthful side and its strong start to the season. The athletic striker has scored seven goals in eight league games, helping Strasbourg sit third, just two points behind leaders Marseille.

The 23-year-old center forward has been pivotal to coach Liam Rosenior’s youthful side and their strong start to the season. The athletic striker has scored seven goals in eight league games, helping Strasbourg sit third, just two points behind leader Marseille.

Panichelli, the league's

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