Alexandre Lacazette, one of Olympique Lyonnais’ most iconic figures, will bid farewell to the club at the end of the 2024–25 season. The announcement marks the end of a storied relationship between the French striker and his boyhood club.
Lacazette’s current contract is set to expire on June 30, 2025, and according to official club sources, it will not be renewed. While the decision did not come as a complete surprise, it still carries a deep emotional weight for Lyon fans who have followed his journey for more than a decade.
From Lyon to Arsenal and Back
Lacazette began his professional career at Lyon and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most prolific strikers in Ligue 1. In his first spell with the club, he scored over 100 goals and became a fan favorite thanks to his consistency, leadership, and loyalty.
In 2017, he made a high-profile move to Arsenal, where he spent five seasons, winning the FA Cup and making a solid mark in the Premier League. His return to Lyon in 2022 was celebrated as a homecoming. In his first season back, he delivered an impressive 31 goals in all competitions, showing that he still had the firepower to lead from the front.
A Difficult Season and a Club in Crisis
However, Lacazette’s second stint at Lyon hasn’t been without challenges. The current season has seen a dip in form, and the club itself is facing significant financial difficulties — including more than €500 million in debt. With the threat of relegation and sanctions looming due to financial irregularities, Lyon is being forced to make tough decisions.
Lacazette’s departure is believed to be part of a broader cost-cutting strategy, as he remains one of the highest-paid players at the club. His professionalism and loyalty have never been in question, but the circumstances surrounding the club may have made it difficult for both parties to continue beyond this season.
What’s Next for Lacazette?
At 33, Lacazette still has football left in him, and speculation has already begun about his next move. Previous reports have linked him with clubs in Saudi Arabia, Major League Soccer (MLS), and even potential coaching roles in France.
Wherever he goes next, he will leave behind a legacy at Lyon that few players can match. His final appearance at the Groupama Stadium is expected to be emotional — a farewell to a player who has given so much to the club.
Conclusion
Alexandre Lacazette’s exit will mark the closing chapter of an unforgettable story in Lyon’s modern history. For fans, it’s a moment to celebrate his achievements, thank him for his loyalty, and wish him well on the next chapter of his career.
