December saw the usual staggered schedule across Europe, as most of the main leagues entered into a winter break, which puts a halt on proceedings across several major leagues. With many stories left to be continued in 2024, and still plenty to be played for in every league, the action in the new year will certainly be a must-watch.

This months winner of the NextGoalWinner POTM award from Europe takes our attention back to Spain, where the story unfolding for Girona is quite remarkable. Of course being part of the City Group does somewhat dampen the feel-good spirit from neutrals, however for the run to be so impressive against the traditional giants of Spanish football, we are really on the precipice of a Leicester City style season despite the obvious backing the club may have off-field.

For the individual award, we couldn’t look past 26 year old Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk, who had a great December on the pitch as he bagged 4 goals in 4 games, helping keep Girona on their terrific run, and beating some traditionally big opposition in the process. His goals were crucial the the last few results and as a result, we felt it deserved to be recognised with our monthly award.

If you have anything to add to our NextGoalWinner POTM decision, or disagree with our pick, head over to Twitter (@NextGoalWinBlog) and let us know what you think.

Match By Match

December 2nd: Girona 2-1 Valencia – Although Girona’s run has been remarkable, this actually was Dovbyk’s quietest game of the month, as despite the late comeback victory, it was Stuani who took the praise for his 80th minute brace. Dovbyk had a steady showing, managing just 1 shot which was blocked, an individual xG of 0.10 and generally struggled to get the chances he needs to get on the scoresheet. While it was a tame showing from the Ukrainian striker, I doubt he would have minded too much given the eventual result.

December 10th: Barcelona 2-4 Girona – After his quiet showing against Valencia, he more than made up for it as he opened the scoring against Barcelona in the 12th minute. Although they were quickly pegged back by Barcelona, Girona went on to take control the they ran out eventual 4-2 winners in what turned out to be a comfortable night. Dovbyk had a strong showing here as despite playing on 73 minutes, he led the line well, scoring the opener, and creating a chance for his teammate.

December 18th: Girona 3-0 Deportivo Alaves – After his goal against Barcelona and securing 2 strong results in December, this continued with the most dominant showing against Deportivo Alaves as Dovbyk had his best night of the month, grabbing a brace in their 3-0 win. Having again opened the scoring, he added a second in the 59th minute as Girona were awarded a penalty which secured the 3-0 win and more importantly all 3 points to continue their title charge. Dovbyk was more involved in this game than his previous 2, as he managed 4 shots, (2 on target, 1 blocked), had an xG of 1.44 (helped by the penalty of course) and had 100% tackles won.

December 21st: Real Betis 1-1 Girona – In the final game of the year for Girona, they stumbled as they were left to settle for a point against Betis after their late equaliser. It looked like Dovbyk had secured the win for Girona thanks to his 39th minute penalty, however they couldn’t hold on in this occasion and have to settle for a point which will make the new year a very intriguing proposition in La Liga for Girona and the title rivals Real Madrid. Dovbyk had his statistically strongest showing, as he played 64 minutes but managed 1 goal, 90% pass accuracy, 100% shot accuracy and 0.79xG. Keeping Girona unbeaten and ending the month/year with 4 goals in 4 games to see out 2023 in style.