Fofana stays at Lyon for another season amid World Cup 2026 plans

Malick Fofana, the 20 year old Belgian winger for Olympique Lyonnais, turned down multiple approaches last summer and will remain at Lyon for at least another season, his club and representatives said. Fofana, who moved from Gent to Lyon in January 2024, was the subject of sustained interest from clubs across Europe and beyond, but after discussions with his family and advisers he opted to prioritise regular playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Fofana’s agent, Frederico Pena of Roc Nation, said the player wants this season to be “the season in which Fofana wants to show himself to the world, especially at the World Cup. If he succeeds, he can move from Lyon to a top 10 club.” Pena added that Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Manchester City are among the clubs he and his agency regard as fitting next destinations for Fofana. Lyon general manager Michael Gerlinger said that “after speaking with Fofana, his agent, and his family, it was clear that the sporting project is also important to them. And that project is staying with Lyon for at least another year.”

Clubs across the Premier League and Europe were linked with Fofana throughout the transfer window. Reports indicate Everton...