Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon) Squad 2024/25
Olympique Lyonnais, commonly referred to as Lyon, has long been a powerhouse in French football, renowned for its rich history, passionate fanbase, and commitment to nurturing world-class talent. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club has meticulously assembled a squad brimming with experience, youth, and tactical versatility. This season’s roster reflects a blend of homegrown stars, shrewd acquisitions, and seasoned veterans, all united under the common goal of reclaiming domestic glory and making a significant impact in European competitions. Below, we delve into the comprehensive breakdown of Lyon’s squad, examining each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Anthony Lopes
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Anthony Lopes remains Lyon’s stalwart between the posts, a testament to loyalty and consistency. Having risen through the club’s academy, Lopes has been the first-choice goalkeeper for over a decade. Known for his lightning reflexes, commanding presence in the box, and exceptional shot-stopping ability, he has been instrumental in Lyon’s defensive solidity. In the 2023/24 season, he recorded 12 clean sheets in Ligue 1, further cementing his status as one of the league’s top goalkeepers. His leadership and experience make him an invaluable asset both on and off the pitch.
- Julian Pollersbeck
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Bayer Leverkusen, Kaiserslautern
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2021)
Julian Pollersbeck serves as a reliable backup to Lopes, offering depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. The German shot-stopper is known for his composure under pressure and excellent distribution skills. While his playing time has been limited, Pollersbeck has proven his worth in cup competitions and during Lopes’ occasional absences. His professionalism and readiness to step up when called upon make him a vital part of the squad.
- Kayne Bonnevie
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
A promising young talent, Kayne Bonnevie is Lyon’s third-choice goalkeeper and a product of the club’s esteemed academy. At just 20 years old, Bonnevie has already showcased his potential in youth and reserve matches. His agility, quick decision-making, and ability to read the game have drawn comparisons to a young Hugo Lloris. While he is yet to make his senior debut, Bonnevie is widely regarded as Lyon’s future number one.
Defenders
- Malo Gusto
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Malo Gusto has emerged as one of the most exciting right-backs in European football. A product of Lyon’s academy, Gusto combines defensive solidity with attacking flair, making him a complete modern full-back. His pace, crossing ability, and tactical intelligence have earned him a regular spot in the starting XI. In the 2023/24 season, he contributed 5 assists and 2 goals, highlighting his offensive impact. At just 21, Gusto’s potential is limitless, and he is already attracting interest from top clubs across Europe.
- Castello Lukeba
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Castello Lukeba is the cornerstone of Lyon’s defense, a composed and intelligent center-back who reads the game with remarkable maturity. Despite his young age, Lukeba has established himself as a leader in the backline, known for his precise tackling, aerial dominance, and ability to play out from the back. His performances in the 2023/24 season earned him a call-up to the French national team, further validating his status as one of the brightest defensive prospects in world football.
- Nicolás Tagliafico
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Ajax, Independiente
- Transfer Fee: €4.2 million (2022)
Nicolás Tagliafico brings a wealth of experience and tenacity to Lyon’s left-back position. The Argentine international is renowned for his relentless work rate, defensive discipline, and ability to contribute in attack. Since joining from Ajax, Tagliafico has been a consistent performer, providing stability and leadership on the flanks. His versatility allows him to slot into a back-three when needed, making him an indispensable part of the squad.
- Dejan Lovren
- Nationality: Croatian
- Former Clubs: Liverpool, Zenit St. Petersburg, Southampton
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
A seasoned campaigner, Dejan Lovren returned to Lyon in 2023 to add experience and grit to the defense. The Croatian center-back is a commanding presence, known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and ability to organize the backline. While his pace has diminished with age, Lovren’s reading of the game and leadership qualities remain invaluable. His mentorship of younger defenders like Lukeba has been crucial to their development.
- Sinaly Diomandé
- Nationality: Ivorian
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Sinaly Diomandé is a versatile defender capable of playing as a center-back or right-back. The Ivorian international is known for his athleticism, tackling ability, and composure on the ball. Diomandé’s rise through Lyon’s ranks has been impressive, and he has become a reliable option in defense. His ability to adapt to different roles makes him a valuable asset for the manager.
- Henrique Silva
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Palmeiras
- Transfer Fee: €8 million (2024)
Lyon’s latest defensive acquisition, Henrique Silva, joined the club in the summer of 2024 from Palmeiras. The Brazilian left-back is known for his attacking prowess, overlapping runs, and defensive solidity. At 22, Silva is already a well-rounded player with significant potential. His arrival provides competition for Tagliafico and adds depth to the squad.
Midfielders
- Corentin Tolisso
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Bayern Munich
- Transfer Fee: Free (2022)
Corentin Tolisso returned to Lyon in 2022 after a successful stint at Bayern Munich. The French midfielder is a dynamic presence in the center of the park, combining technical skill, vision, and goal-scoring ability. Tolisso’s experience at the highest level has been instrumental in guiding Lyon’s younger players. In the 2023/24 season, he contributed 7 goals and 6 assists, showcasing his all-around capabilities.
- Maxence Caqueret
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Maxence Caqueret is the heartbeat of Lyon’s midfield, a tireless worker with exceptional passing range and tactical intelligence. The 24-year-old has become a fan favorite due to his relentless energy and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Caqueret’s performances have drawn comparisons to N’Golo Kanté, and he is widely regarded as one of the best young midfielders in France.
- Johann Lepenant
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Caen
- Transfer Fee: €4.5 million (2022)
Johann Lepenant has quickly established himself as a key player in Lyon’s midfield since joining from Caen. The 22-year-old is known for his ball-winning ability, composure under pressure, and precise passing. Lepenant’s versatility allows him to play as a defensive midfielder or in a more advanced role, making him a valuable asset for the team.
- Rayan Cherki
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Rayan Cherki is one of the most exciting talents in world football, a creative midfielder with flair, vision, and technical brilliance. The 21-year-old has already amassed over 100 appearances for Lyon, contributing 15 goals and 20 assists. Cherki’s ability to unlock defenses with his dribbling and passing makes him a constant threat. His potential is sky-high, and he is expected to play a pivotal role in Lyon’s success this season.
- Skelly Alvero
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Sochaux
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2023)
Skelly Alvero joined Lyon in 2023 as a promising young midfielder. The 21-year-old is known for his physicality, work rate, and ability to break up play. While still developing, Alvero has shown glimpses of his potential and is expected to play a more significant role in the coming seasons.
Forwards
- Alexandre Lacazette
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Arsenal, Lyon
- Transfer Fee: Free (2023)
Alexandre Lacazette returned to Lyon in 2023 after a successful spell at Arsenal. The French striker is a proven goal-scorer, known for his clinical finishing, movement, and link-up play. Lacazette’s leadership and experience have been crucial for Lyon, and he remains the team’s primary attacking threat. In the 2023/24 season, he scored 18 goals in Ligue 1, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s top forwards.
- Bradley Barcola
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Bradley Barcola is a rising star in Lyon’s attack, a versatile forward capable of playing on the wing or as a central striker. The 22-year-old is known for his pace, dribbling, and eye for goal. Barcola’s breakthrough season in 2023/24 saw him score 10 goals and provide 8 assists, earning him a call-up to the French national team. His potential is immense, and he is expected to play a key role this season.
- Amine Gouiri
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Nice, Rennes
- Transfer Fee: €25 million (2024)
Lyon’s marquee signing of the summer, Amine Gouiri, joined from Rennes for a club-record fee. The French forward is a versatile attacker, capable of playing as a winger or striker. Gouiri is known for his creativity, technical skill, and goal-scoring ability. His arrival adds a new dimension to Lyon’s attack, and he is expected to form a formidable partnership with Lacazette.
- Jeffinho
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Botafogo
- Transfer Fee: €10 million (2023)
Jeffinho is a dynamic winger who joined Lyon in 2023 from Botafogo. The Brazilian is known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to create chances. Jeffinho’s flair and unpredictability make him a fan favorite, and he has already made a significant impact in his first season. His development will be crucial for Lyon’s success this year.
- Sael Kumbedi
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: None (Lyon academy graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Sael Kumbedi is a promising young forward who has risen through Lyon’s academy. The 19-year-old is known for his speed, technical ability, and eye for goal. While still raw, Kumbedi has shown glimpses of his potential and is expected to feature more prominently in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Lyon squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with a strong emphasis on homegrown talent and strategic acquisitions. Each player brings unique qualities to the team, contributing to a cohesive and dynamic unit capable of challenging for honors on multiple fronts. With a solid defensive foundation, a creative and industrious midfield, and a potent attack, Lyon is well-positioned to reclaim its place among Europe’s elite. As the season unfolds, the club’s faithful will be eagerly watching, hopeful that this talented group can deliver the success they so richly deserve.