Olympique Lyonnais is preparing for a crucial moment in its history, with a hearing before the French Football Federation (FFF) Superior Appeal Board on Wednesday. The club tries to keep itself in League 1 after being demoted in first instance by the National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG). The financial emergency is extreme, with the DNCG claiming EUR 100 million and an additional EUR 100 million guarantee for next season. If no retaker shows up quickly, the fall could be dramatic. This decision came as John Textor, former OL president, withdrew and now devotes his energy to Botafogo, while maintaining an agreement to pay 50% of the transfer price of any player sold by OL to this Brazilian club, as is the case for Lucas Perri.
OL’s financial situation is particularly precarious, and the decisions taken by the DNCG have a direct impact on the club’s ability to recover. Despite the separation with OL, John Textor continues to influence the financial situation of the Lyon club, notably through this benefit-sharing clause on transfers. This raises questions about the long-term viability of the club and the possibility of finding a viable financial solution to repay debt owed to the DNCG. The outcome of this hearing will determine the immediate future of Olympique Lyonnais.
In parallel with this financial crisis, OL continues to develop its young talents. Teo Barisic, trained at the club, had a promising season with the reserve team and even made his first minutes in Ligue 1. He was also called as a national team Croatia U21, where he played three friendly games. The club extended its contract until 2028, demonstrating its confidence in its potential. Barisic expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters, stressing his commitment to continue fighting for the Lyon jersey. This upward trajectory is a hope for the future of the club, even in this period of uncertainty.
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