Lyon FC: Can Lyon Avoid Relegation in Ligue 1?

Lyon’s 2025–26 journey in Ligue 1 feels like one of those nail‑biting tales you can’t quite predict. It’s full of twists—big debts, near‑demise, a dramatic appeal, and now a surprising renaissance. It’s not your average football drama; it’s a story of resilience, rebuilding, and unexpected momentum that’s captured the attention even beyond France.

The Financial Free‑Fall and Fightback

Back in June 2025, Lyon faced one of the gravest threats a football club can: administrative relegation to Ligue 2 by the DNCG, the watchdog overseeing finances in French football, due to staggering debt—estimates ranged up to €500 million .

They weren’t just juggling numbers; they were juggling their fate. The DNCG initially confirmed relegation on June 24, forcing Lyon into an existential scramble . They appealed, of course, and—here’s where things get complicated—they got a reprieve. By early July, new leadership under Michele Kang convinced the authorities they could meet the financial requirements, and the club was allowed to stay in Ligue 1, albeit under tight budget constraints and oversight .

This rebirth hinged on financial restructuring, boardroom changes (Kang replacing John Textor), and trimming the wage bill aggressively . It was messy, but it worked.

On the Pitch: From Survival Mode to Winning Form

Survival mode doesn’t usually spark a renaissance, but that’s exactly what happened. In the early months of the season, optimism was scarce: Lyon sold or lost major assets—like Rayan Cherki, Mikautadze, Matic—and reshaped their squad almost completely .

Yet, Paul Fonseca, their manager, turned that upheaval into an unlikely strength. He adopted solid defensive principles and leaned on emerging talents from the academy. He even admitted he was “pleasantly surprised” by the season’s turn of events .

And then, incredibly, Lyon became Europe’s in-form team. A jaw-dropping run of consecutive victories, led by rising stars like Pavel Sulc (around 12 goals and several assists), Tyler Morton, Afonso Moreira, and the loan sensation Endrick, made Lyon arguably the hottest side across top leagues .

The Endrick Effect

Few stories grab attention like a teenage forward lighting up Ligue 1. Enter Endrick—a Real Madrid loanee whose first month at Lyon included a hat‑trick against Metz, making him the youngest Brazilian to do so in European football, plus a Player of the Month award in January . His impact—on and off the field—has been seismic, filling stadiums and feeding social buzz.

“You could see from the academy and from our transfer strategy that resilience breeds opportunity,” one insider noted, highlighting how necessity forced Lyon to back youth—and how it’s paid dividends.

Why This Turnaround Still Feels Unpredictable

Lyon’s turnaround isn’t just a feel‑good tale. It’s a case study in how crisis breeds creativity—and how aligning financial realism with tactical pragmatism can produce a potent, if unexpected, outcome.

• Financial discipline became the catalyst for transformation—not just survival.
• Youth integration wasn’t optional—it was vital, and it delivered.
• Leadership reshaped the club’s narrative, emphasizing trust and direction amid turmoil.

All of which begs the question: can this momentum carry Lyon not just above the relegation zone, but into the Champions League spots?

Conclusion

Lyon’s story this season has been anything but linear. What started as a financial crisis and survival struggle has evolved into something more promising—an emergent, confident side blending pragmatism with youthful ambition. It’s a potent reminder that adversity, when met with clarity and boldness, can spark growth rather than decline. For Lyon, the road ahead isn’t just about avoiding relegation—it may be about rediscovering something of their former glory.

FAQs

Why was Lyon administratively relegated in summer 2025?

Due to massive debt—reports cited figures up to €500 million—the DNCG ruled the club must be relegated unless it could provide financial guarantees. Lyon appealed successfully after showing a restructured budget and new leadership .

Who took over leadership at Lyon during the crisis?

Michele Kang replaced John Textor as club president in late June 2025. Her appointment helped reassure financial authorities and played a key role in reversing the relegation decision .

How did Lyon rebuild their squad after losing key players?

They lowered the wage bill by selling high earners and leaned heavily on academy prospects and affordable talent. This youth-first approach, combined with tactical discipline, allowed them to overperform without a big spending spree .

What role did Endrick play in Lyon’s resurgence?

The young Brazilian loanee made an enormous impact—scoring a hat-trick, earning Player of the Month, and energizing fans and media alike. His performances have become one of the most talked-about stories of Ligue 1 this season .

Is Lyon still at risk of relegation?

No. They secured their Ligue 1 status on appeal back in July 2025. Since then, their form has improved sharply, lifting them into mid-table and even into Avrupa hopeful positions .

What’s next for Lyon?

If they maintain this form, Champions League qualification isn’t off the table. More broadly, the club needs to sustain financial discipline, integrate youth smartly, and build on the leadership restructuring that saved them in the first place.