Lyon supporters can (finally) breathe. The shadow of an administrative sanction or a demotion has been hanging for months on their club, but Olympique Lyonnais seems to have regained hand over its financial destiny. A few weeks before its passage in front of the DNCG, the French football finance control organization, the club saw good news arose: the end of its troubles with FIFA. For John Textor, the American president, this relief falls out. Enough to make believe, for a moment, that the demons of OL are definitely buried.
But in reality, this thinning is due to a problem … rather minor. If FIFA had indeed prohibited in Lyon any recruitment, it was not for missing millions or a monumental debt, but for a forgetfulness of 2000 euros. Yes, 2000 euros. A training indemnity not set in time. Administrative negligence which caused an immediate reaction from Zurich. Fortunately for the Gones, the regulations were quickly restored, and the sanction raised on Tuesday. More fear than harm, therefore.
Textor breathes, but OL remains under pressure
OL: The sanction raised, the real upcoming test
However, everything is not yet rosy behind the scenes of the Rhone club. The real test arrives at the beginning of June, when the DNCG is closely studying the financial viability of the project carried by Textor. The latter must demonstrate his ability to finance the club in the coming season. Fortunately, several elements argue in its favor: the European qualification acquired in extremis and above all, the prospect of a major sale.
Rayan Cherki now represents the main market value of OL. The French international, courted in particular by Manchester City, could bring in nearly 40 million euros this summer. A precious windfall to balance the accounts and convince the DNCG to validate the Lyon ambitions. In the meantime, Textor blows … but nothing says that the storm has completely passed.
