Lyon ownership suggests player sales are needed, leaving Cherki’s future to his decision.

Olympique Lyonnais, regarded as a staple of French football, is preparing to undergo significant player sales in the upcoming transfer window.

The French club is under pressure to offset €100 million of its staggering €500 million debt to avoid the looming threat of relegation.

As a result, several key players, particularly Rayan Cherki, are expected to be put on the market.

John Textor, the club’s owner, shared insights on the expected changes.

“We have 29 players in the first team. Ideally, we need 23 or 24 players. There are six players too many, and some have not left. Pierre Sage has to decide which player to field because we have too many players,” said Textor, as reported by the club’s official communications.

Speaking specifically about the future of Cherki, Textor mentioned, “We lost €15 million from his sale, but we have secured a longer-term contract (expiring in 2026). He is more valuable today than he was this summer. He should stay in January, but it will be his choice, as it always is in football.”

Textor also addressed concerns about relegation, stating, “We will not be relegated. Our shareholders have the resources. No one will allow the club to go down. We are very optimistic.”

He further reassured fans by saying, “There is no possibility of failure, at any level (player sales, stock market, selling Crystal Palace…). By the end of the season, we will have saved more than €50 million in wages.”

Discussing the club’s financial strategy, Textor explained, “The auditor and DNCG did not want to consider the sale of Crystal Palace and the IPO. However, four reputable investment banks have already stepped forward for the IPO Raise.”

“We will have American collaborators but also from around the world in regard to the sale of Crystal Palace. There are four potential buyers from well-known companies, billionaires from around the world, and leaders of large tech companies. They may not buy at the price I desired but it’s far more money than what OL needs,” he concluded.

Lyon supporters anxiously await further developments, as the club seeks to find a balance between retaining key talents and stabilising its financial standings.