Lyon’s Appeal Strategy: Overturning Financial Restrictions
Olympique Lyonnais and owner John Textor are mounting a robust appeal against the sanctions imposed by French football’s financial regulator, the DNCG. The club faces a transfer ban and strict budget monitoring due to its substantial debt exceeding €500 million.
On Friday, Textor will present the club’s case to an appeals committee. Lyon’s primary arguments include a procedural complaint about delayed official notification of sanctions, which impacted their ability to appeal promptly. They will also showcase recent financial improvements, including a significant €100 million cash injection.
The club has made efforts to balance its books through player sales, including Jeffinho to Botafogo and Gift Orban to Hoffenheim, totaling around €14 million. They’ve also reduced their wage bill by transferring high-earning players like Anthony Lopes.
In parallel developments, Textor is progressing with plans to sell his Crystal Palace shares and is working on an Initial Public Offering (IPO) for Eagle Group, with investment bank UBS leading the process. Despite current restrictions, Lyon retains the ability to acquire players on loan, potentially including Thiago Almada from Botafogo.
The club’s management remains optimistic that these measures and arguments will persuade the committee to reconsider the sanctions, allowing Lyon greater financial flexibility for the remainder of the season.