At 18 years old, Kyllian Antonio has already traveled a path that many young footballers do not even dream of reaching. After winning the Coupe de France with RCLens and participating in the Champions League, the defender finally spoke to the media. During the press conference at Gaillette-Gervais-Martel, he displayed a surprising maturity, recognizing his mistakes while clearly expressing his ambitions for the future of the club.
Antonio made his Ligue1 debut at the end of the 2023‑24 season, then continued to play regularly in the Champions League. Their first major European victory came in the Coupe de France, where Lens beat Nice 3–1, before facing PSG in the Trophée des Champions. Despite his rapid rise, the young player keeps his feet on the ground. He said he doesn't let pressure overwhelm him, preferring to enjoy every moment while working hard to improve. “I’m happy with what I’m doing; even if nothing is perfect yet, I know that I can still improve,” he explained, emphasizing his desire to constantly progress.
Difficult moments, such as his expulsion during the Champions Trophy or certain defensive errors, reminded Antonio of the demands of the high level. He works daily with his coaches, analyzing videos to correct his positioning and tactical choices. He cites models such as SergioRamos, RaphaëlVarane and IsmaëloGaniou as sources of inspiration. Ganiou, whom he considers a “big brother”, gives him advice before each match, while other teammates like JonathanGradit, Jean-ClairTodibo, FlorianSotoca and FlorianThauvin contribute to his learning.
Alongside his development in the field, Antonio has built a strong sense of autonomy since his early departure from his parents to join the INF and the Lensois training center. He believes he must behave like an adult in the world of professional football. Despite his young age, he keeps a special thought for his parents, who have been with him since his first steps. Seeing them in the stands, watching him evolve under the Champions League anthem, represents immense satisfaction for him.
At the dawn of the next season, RCLens is counting on Antonio to consolidate its defense and become a pillar of the club. His early maturity, his commitment and his desire to turn promises into realities make him one of the most promising faces of the club's future. The next matches in Ligue1 and the Champions League will be an opportunity to see if this young defender can really become a reference for the Sang et Or.