Serie: Topps Match Attax 2024/2025
Type: Basic
Number: 232
Junior Castello Lukeba, born on 17 December 2002, is an exceptionally talented French professional footballer who has carved a niche for himself as a centre-back for Bundesliga club RB Leipzig and the France national team.
Lukeba’s journey began when he joined the Olympique Lyonnais Academy in 2011. His dedication and hard work paid off when he signed his first professional contract with the club on 1 July 2021. Not long after, he made his professional debut for Lyon on 7 August 2021, starting against Brest in the opening round of the 2021–22 Ligue 1 season. He played the full 90 minutes, and though the match ended in a 1–1 draw, it marked the beginning of his promising career. Lukeba’s European football debut came on 25 November 2021, in a match against Brøndby during the 2021–22 UEFA Europa League group stage. He further solidified his presence by scoring his first goal for Lyon on 22 December 2021, with a header assisted by Rayan Cherki. In January 2022, Lyon recognized his potential and extended his contract until 2025.
The year 2023 brought a significant change for Lukeba as he transferred to Bundesliga club RB Leipzig on 11 August for a reported fee of €34 million, signing a five-year contract. His excitement about the move was palpable; he eagerly anticipated joining the new team, the training ground, the stadium, the city, and the team with its vibrant young players. Lukeba made his debut for Leipzig on 19 August 2023, in a 3–2 loss against Bayer Leverkusen, coming on as a substitute in the 62nd minute. He didn’t take long to make an impact, scoring his first goal for RB Leipzig in a thrilling 2–2 draw against Bayern Munich on 30 September 2023.
Lukeba, born in France to Angolan descent, chose to represent France on the international stage. His first call-up to the France U-21 team came in November 2021, where he joined his club mates Maxence Caqueret, Rayan Cherki, and Malo Gusto. On 9 October 2023, Lukeba received his first call-up to the France national team for matches against the Netherlands and Scotland, stepping in for the injured Axel Disasi.
From his humble beginnings at the Lyon Academy to his rising stardom in Bundesliga, Junior Castello Lukeba’s journey is a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for the beautiful game.
