SV Kuchl
After two years in England, Lukas Pinon signed a one-year contract with SV Kuchl in Austria. This period marked his first sustained exposure to high European league competition and his first experience competing week to week within a structured European football environment. It served as an important introduction to the expectations, intensity, and consistency required at the European level.
*Lukas Pinon on the right in his debut game for SV Kuchl*
*Lukas struggling to find his form*
Lukas had a hard time adjusting to the Austrian style of play. He played primarily as a winger prior to joining SV Kuchl, however due to a lack of form and ability to find the net, the club opted to have him change positions, as a left back. This was a new position that required adjustment to different tactical and defensive responsibilities. He approached the role with an open mindset and focused on contributing within the team structure.
In the midst of trying to regain his form, Lukas suffered a knee injury in a match that required approximately six months of recovery. This was a massive setback for him and he knew he had a long road of recovery to return back to full health. Lukas stayed persistent through the process and came back a much stronger player.
*Lukas suffers knee injury that puts him out for 6 months*
Despite the horrific knee injury, Lukas was able to heal and regain form, which he then attracted interest from SC Bastia, a professional club competing in France’s Ligue 2. He traveled to France to take part in a trial with the club, marking his first direct entry point into the French professional football system.
*Lukas (far left) on trial with SC Bastia*
Lukas impressed the club during his trial, however negotiations with Bastia ultimately fell through. The opportunity led to further connections within French football. Shortly after, Lukas moved into a professional football environment in France with Pau FC, continuing the next chapter of his career. Lukas credits Valdo Costa as an important influence in facilitating his transition from Austria to France and supporting his move into the French football system. Miguel Richard is also credited along side Valdo for helping him reach his life goal of playing at the highest level.
