For the next major Ligue 1 match, Olympique Lyonnais can count on a quality team, not only in terms of aligned players, but also thanks to a competent arbitral body. The Ligue de Football Professionnel has appointed Franรงois Letexier as the key referee for the Sunday Olympia, an event that has already seen him 24 times. Although Letexier had a mixed record with OL, marked by a controversial performance during the derby against Saint-Etienne, he would be supported by his assistants and the VAR. This meeting takes place in a context of possible departures of key players, notably Georges Mikautadze, whose departure could allow the club to strengthen its finances.
OL’s financial situation is worrying, and selling players like Mikautadze could be a solution to fill the deficit. However, attempts to sell Malick Fofana, despite the interest of European clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich, have so far failed due to the player’s wage requirements. OL even considered negotiations with Bayern Munich for a transfer with a loan from Fofana, but this proposal was rejected. Despite these difficulties, the supporters expressed their support for Fofana during a training open to the public, stressing its importance for the team.
In addition to these movements, OL welcomed the return of Orel Manga, after an ankle injury that had taken him away from the ground for a long time. This unexpected reinforcement is a boost for Paulo Fonseca. In addition, Nemanja Matic signed with Sassuolo, ending his Lyon adventure. This news is in addition to the delicate financial situation of the club, which must manage the potential departures of players while seeking to strengthen its staff. Fofana’s future remains uncertain, but the team seems determined to keep it, and supporters are behind him.