Olympique Lyonnais is facing persistent financial difficulties, exacerbated by the complex situation surrounding John Textor and its Eagle Football Holding company. The club struggles to recover funds related to its players transfers, notably Thiago Almada to Atlรฉtico Madrid, despite Textor’s promises to reallocate funds to the financial stability of the club. This raises questions about the transparency and management of multi-ownership, affecting OL’s ability to invest and develop. At the same time, the Crystal Palace, also controlled by Eagle Football Holding, faces similar problems, notably with access to the Europa League due to restrictions on common ownership.
The French women’s team achieved an exceptional course at Euro 2025, qualifying for the quarter finals with a perfect result of three victories. Lyon attacker Marie-Antoinette Katoto was particularly successful, scoring and delivering a decisive pass. Selma Bacha, also from OL, conceded a goal against her side but expressed her resilience and leadership role on the team. The five Lyon women present at the Euro, including Katoto, Diani, Bacha, Majriet and Sombath, will face Germany in quarterfinals, with Bacha pointing out that the team is considered a challenger rather than a favourite.
In preparation for the new season, OL started their pre-season with a friendly match against the Football Club Villefranche-Beaujolais. Coach Paulo Fonseca should test different game schemes and give new players time to play. The newly professional, Portuguese midfielder Matys De Carvalho has joined the group and enjoys the trust of Fonseca. The team also welcomed new players, including Justin Benguia, after selections with the French U20 and Euro Espoirs. These preparations take place in a prudent financial management environment, with the hope that the new season will stabilize the club’s situation.