Today, Tuesday 8 July, Olympique Lyonnais is preparing for a crucial day for its future. After an administrative demotion in Ligue 2 by the DNCG, the club must appeal this decision to the Federal Appeal Board. This approach, the date of which has been advanced, is essential in trying to maintain OL in Ligue 1. To reduce its payroll in case of retention, the club plans to separate four key players: Jordan Veretout, Nemanja Matic, Duje Caleta-Car and Adryelson, whose contracts expire in 2026, 2026, 2027 and 2028 respectively. This operation could save almost EUR 10 million. At the same time, OL’s financial situation remains precarious, and the ARES investment fund does not plan to maintain the club in the long term. Options exist: either ARES participates in a capital increase to recover part of its investment, or it renounces and accepts a minimum loss.
In this uncertain context, John Textoor, former OL president, left his office to devote himself to Botafogo, while maintaining a financial interest for the Lyon club. An agreement provides that Botafogo perceives 50% of the price of any transfer of Lucas Perri, OL goaltender, transferred to Botafogo in January 2024. This clause will not solve OL’s liquidity problems, which must repay EUR 100 million to the DNCG. Despite the downgrading of the sport, OL is benefiting from the relegation of two other clubs, Balagne and Bergerac, allowing it to retain its place in National 2.
OL’s leadership team for the 2025-2026 season was unveiled, with Nicolas Puydebois as coach of the guards and Enzo Realé as sports advisor. Puydebois, a former OL player, has been playing this role since 2021 and will be supported by a full staff. Realé, retired from the field since January 2025, will now focus on the strategic aspects of the club. These appointments demonstrate a willingness to continue and prepare for the future, despite the current financial and administrative difficulties. OL therefore awaits a positive outcome of its legal situation so that they can focus on preparing for the upcoming season.