Following the confirmation of his retention in Ligue 1 by the DNCG, Olympique Lyonnais began preparations for its new season. The team, led by Paulo Fonseca, has resumed training on Monday and plans a series of friendly games to sharpen its preparations. These meetings, which will take place mainly at the Groupama OL Training Center (GOLTC), include matches against FC Villefranche Beaujolais (19 July), RWDM Brussels (23 July) and Hamburg SV (26 July). An internship is also planned in Austria, Tyrol, from 26 July to 2 August, including friendly matches against the Majoïque RCD (30 July) and potentially against Al-Nassr.
The announcement of these preparations took place in a context of financial clarification for the club. OL President Michele Kang highlighted the availability of the club’s funds, contrary to the unfulfilled promises of his predecessor, John Texto. OL presented a financial balance sheet of EUR 124 million, mainly in tangible funds, to reassure DNCG of its ability to meet its commitments. This financial transparency is a key element for the continuation of the season and confidence in the management of the club.
The goal of this preparation period is to allow the team to regain its rhythm and prepare at best for the start of Ligue 1, with a first game in Lens on August 9. The internship in Austria is particularly important for team cohesion and for dealing with opponents at European level. Friendly games serve as valuable tests to assess team progress and adjust strategies for the coming season.