The Pressure of January at Lyon
January is a critical period for football clubs in Europe, and Lyon (OL) is no exception. The hectic fixture schedules and the challenges of the mid-season transfer window add considerable pressure. For Lyon, the stakes are even higher as they navigate through financial difficulties that threaten to force them into Ligue 2. The club’s owners, Eagle Football Group, have been proactive in addressing the financial situation, securing three permanent player sales and implementing other initiatives to boost cash flow. While the economic situation is a pressing concern, Lyon’s recent form on the pitch should not be overlooked. A six-match winless run, including a 1-1 draw against Nantes, has raised eyebrows. In a tight race for European qualification, where securing a Champions League spot can mean a minimum of €18.62m in revenue, Lyon must find a way to regain their winning ways.
The Struggle for Goals
Lyon’s struggles are most evident in their goal-scoring department. After a remarkable recovery last season, they became one of France’s most entertaining teams, known for their high-scoring games. However, since the domestic break, their attack has faltered. Lyon has not scored more than one goal against top-tier opposition in 2025, and their recent exit from the Coupe de France on penalties to a fifth-tier club, Bourgoin-Jallieu, was a significant embarrassment. The once-prolific Alexandre Lacazette has been particularly affected, failing to score since December 1st. Even Georges Mikautadze, who has seen increased playing time, has struggled in front of goal. With only five goals in six matches since the turn of the year, Lyon’s attack is failing to meet the expectations necessary for a team aiming to return to the pinnacle of European football.
A Missing Creative Spark
One of the primary reasons for Lyon’s goal-scoring drought is the lack of a creative spark in midfield. Manager Pierre Sage has often deployed a midfield trio of Nemanja Matić, Corentin Tolisso, and Jordan Veretout. While these players bring a wealth of experience, including top-tier accolades, none of them are particularly creative. Tolisso has shown improvement and is the most attack-minded of the three, but even he struggles to provide the necessary creativity. Matić’s role is primarily focused on ball progression, leaving a significant void in the middle of the park when it comes to driving forward and splitting defenses. The creative burden has largely fallen on Rayan Cherki, who often has to drift inside and drop deeper to influence the game. The recent addition of Thiago Almada could provide some relief, but acclimating to a new league mid-season is a considerable challenge.
Managerial Speculation and Pressure
Lyon’s poor form has put increased pressure on Pierre Sage, and the speculation around his job security has only intensified. Reports linking the club with Paulo Fonseca, a former Lille head coach with a good track record in France, have added to the scrutiny. Fans and pundits alike are questioning Sage’s ability to steer the team back to form. The highs of last season seem like a distant memory, and the current form is causing significant concern. While Sage has the support of the club’s hierarchy, the pressure to deliver results is mounting. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether he can turn things around or if a change in the dugout becomes inevitable.
Ligue 1 Struggles and Rivals
Lyon’s struggles are not unique to the club; several other Ligue 1 teams are also facing challenges. Jorge Sampaoli’s arrival at Rennes has not had the desired impact, with the Breton club languishing in 16th place after another defeat to Monaco. Meanwhile, PSG’s title race has hit a snag with a draw against Reims, but Marseille’s 2-0 defeat to Nice means the Parisians still maintain their lead at the top. The transfer window is also heating up, with several Ligue 1 players, including Angel Gomes and Kevin Danso, linked with moves away from the league. The competitive landscape of Ligue 1 adds to the pressure on Lyon, making it imperative for them to find their form quickly to stay in contention for a top-four finish.
The Road Ahead
To avoid a significant gap from the Champions League qualification spots, Lyon must address their offensive woes and rediscover the form that made them a force to be reckoned with last season. This will require a combination of tactical adjustments, improved creativity from midfield, and a reinvigorated attack. The arrival of Thiago Almada and the potential for new signings in the January transfer window could provide the spark needed to ignite the team’s performance. Pierre Sage must also navigate the increased scrutiny and pressure, focusing on the immediate task of securing results. As the season progresses, the Rhône club will need to demonstrate resilience and adaptability to keep their European dreams alive.
