The financial situation of Olympique Lyonnais (OL) remains complex, marked by problematic commercial transactions that recall the controversies related to John Textor. Following the departure of Thiago Almada, the details of the transfer, including the exact sum, continue to be debated. The negotiations between Atlético Madrid and Botafogo would involve a value of 30 to 40 million euros, in contrast to the 25 million euros initially paid by Atlético, then other estimates of 21 million euros with a fee contribution for OL. This multi-ownership situation, where Botafogo belongs to Eagle Football Holding, complicates the distribution of funds and weighs on OL’s finances, which seeks to recover after close to relegation to Ligue 2. The current leaders, Michele Kang and Michel Gerling, are therefore confronted with the consequences of these past transactions.
OL are preparing for the recovery of Ligue 1 in a month, in a context of uncertainty as to the composition of their workforce for the 2025-2026 season. The club lies between austerity policy and sporting ambitions, making the management of the team particularly difficult. Corentin Tolisso’s example illustrates this puzzle. This player, important in the game and now captain in the absence of Lacazette, represents a significant salary cost. Despite the financial difficulties, the club would be prepared to consider a financially attractive offer for the 31-year-old player, but the outcome of this potential negotiation remains uncertain.
In parallel, OL is also monitored by other clubs, including the Neom SC en Saudi Pro League, which could try to recruit Tolisso in competition with Manchester United. Although Tolisso is not the current priority of the Saudi club, a failure in the main recruit could revive the case. The Neom SC could use the arguments of Alexandre Lacazette and Said Benrahma, as well as his considerable financial resources, to convince the player. The situation in Tolisso, and potentially other players, is therefore a key element to watch for OL’s future.