Olympique Lyonnais is facing a critical financial situation. To avoid an administrative demotion in League 2, the club must find 200 million euros over two seasons, a difficult task given its current resources. This situation could lead to the departure of several key players, including goaltender Lucas Perri, courted by the Premier League for a sum of 23 million euros. This potential sale is in addition to Rayan Cherkia’s, and OL is considering a fiscal austerity course, limiting wages and reducing the number of professional contracts to get closer to its means. The accumulation of players in the pool, resulting from a failed winter mercato, is also a recurring problem, making it difficult to manage the club financially.

OL’s financial situation is particularly worrying in the context of Euro 2025, where ten Lyonnais compete with different selections. Ada Hegerberg and Ingrid Engen represent Norway, while Leila Wandelera and other players play Switzerland. Norway won its first two games, qualifying for the quarter-finals, and could take advantage of this momentum to rotate. Switzerland, after an initial defeat, won its second game against Iceland and stood up favourably for the qualifying, with a final decisive match against Finland.

The participation of many OL players in Euro 2025 highlights the challenges of talent management and competition within the club. Although European competition can be a showcase for players, it also raises the issue of loyalty and the development of young talent. OL must strike a balance between sports ambitions and financial stability, while taking into account the constraints of the transfer market and increased competition. The success of next season will depend on the club’s ability to overcome these challenges and maintain its key players.