Massive player exodus can’t stop relegation for French team
In a dramatic twist that has stunned French football, Olympique Lyonnais, commonly known as Lyon, have officially been relegated to Ligue 2 after failing to prove their financial stability to the DNCG, French football’s financial regulator. Despite undergoing a massive player exodus in recent months to balance their books, the club could not convince the authorities that they had turned their situation around.
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A Harsh and Unexpected Outcome
The decision, confirmed by the French Football League (LFP) on Tuesday evening, comes as a devastating blow to one of France’s most historic football institutions. Lyon, who claimed seven straight Ligue 1 titles from 2001-02 to 2007-08 and were Champions League semi-finalists just five years ago in 2020, had been handed a provisional relegation back in November due to overwhelming debt. Although clubs like Monaco, Nantes, and Paris FC were also reviewed, they avoided any sanctions, leaving Lyon as the only team punished.
Textor’s Optimism Falls Short
Club president John Textor had expressed confidence in recent weeks, telling L’Équipe that the club had solved its financial issues. Back in November, he even claimed there was “no chance” Lyon would be demoted. In an attempt to raise funds, Textor began selling his stake in Premier League side Crystal Palace. That sale, reportedly to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, is still pending Premier League approval, including passing the owners’ and directors’ test.
Player Sales Not Enough
In response to the initial relegation warning, Lyon parted ways with key players including Said Benrahma, Anthony Lopes, Maxence Caqueret, and more recently, Rayan Cherki, who joined Manchester City. Still, these efforts weren’t enough to prevent the drop.
Club Vows to Fight Back
Lyon responded swiftly to the ruling, declaring their intent to appeal. In an official statement, the club called the DNCG’s decision “incomprehensible,” asserting that they had complied fully with the regulator’s requirements. They emphasized significant equity investments and improvements in their cash position, as well as their recent sporting success, including back-to-back qualifications for European competition. Lyon firmly believes they have the financial means to remain in Ligue 1 and are determined to prove it during the appeal process.
