Florent Malouda Returns to Gerland: “A Special Moment”
This Saturday, Florent Malouda is set for an emotional return to Stade de Gerland as FC Metz take on Olympique Lyonnais in Matchday 22 of Ligue 1. The former France international spent four successful seasons at Lyon (2003–2007), winning four Ligue 1 titles during a golden era for the club.
Now wearing the Metz shirt, Malouda admitted the game holds particular meaning:
“It will be a special moment, of course. Especially coming back with a different jersey, that of an opposing team, and playing against my old club when we need points and results. It will be emotional. I will see friends again, people I consider family, but I have to put all that aside.”
Despite his loyalty to Metz, Malouda expressed a genuine fondness for his former club:
“I would like Lyon to be champions. In any case, they are a competitor and a serious contender. A title would be symbolic in relation to their squad. We didn’t expect such a significant and rapid rejuvenation, but these new Lyonnais are ambitious and carefree.”
As Metz battle to avoid relegation, and Lyon push to stay at the top, Malouda’s return adds a heartfelt subplot to a match rich in stakes and sentiment.
