After choosing to move away from the often difficult atmosphere of Lyon, OL found in Austria a capricious setting, but which seems paradoxically to reflect the club’s persistent difficulties for several weeks. Despite this change of scenery, Paulo Fonseca and his team are trying to prepare for the coming season as best as possible, with a positive atmosphere that cannot hide the financial problems facing the organization. Lucas Perria’s departure illustrated the vulnerability of the workforce to a complex financial situation, a reality that Michael Gerlinger and Michele Kangne had already highlighted recently, at the very moment of celebrating OL’s retention in Ligue 1. A rigorous financial discipline has therefore been announced, motivated by the need to adapt to an unfavourable economic environment.

The figures recently published by the Eagle Football Group between July 2024 and June 2025 confirm a significant decline in activity, with a loss of €87.6 million compared to the previous year. This worrying trend, despite attempts to reassure supporters, is due to a high level of operating expenses, changing perimeters and declining non-recurring revenues. The group anticipates a very large deficit for the 2024-2025 season, likely to exceed the 117 million euros recorded last season. In this context, the new management is forced to make difficult choices, especially in terms of sports spending, in the face of declining TV revenues and the absence of exceptional revenues.

Faced with this situation, OL remain heavily dependent on summer mercato to recover. Malick Fofana’s presence is an asset, but her uncertain situation raises concerns about her future. Transfers, including the sale of players such as Afonso Moreira and Ruben Kluivert, have become a necessity to reduce the wage bill and ensure the club’s sustainability. This austerity cure aims to restore solid foundations, while hoping that OL can maintain a high level of performance both in sport and in economic terms. The club’s future will depend on its ability to manage its finances intelligently and adapt to market constraints.

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