Lacazette Extends Lyon Stay Until 2019, Expresses Relief as Contract Talks End
As Ligue 1 returns this weekend, Olympique Lyonnais have confirmed the contract extension of star striker Alexandre Lacazette, who has committed to the club until 2019. The announcement comes just ahead of Lyon’s opening match against FC Lorient, providing a timely boost for the seven-time French champions.
Lacazette, who scored 27 goals last season and was crowned Ligue 1’s best player, expressed his satisfaction and relief in an interview with L’Équipe, following months of speculation surrounding his future.
“I’m proud, happy and relieved. Finally, it’s over! We’ve been discussing this for almost six months—and the last three months felt particularly long,” said the 24-year-old. “Of course, you try to block it out, but it stays in the back of your mind. And when you’re not 100% mentally, it shows on the pitch.”
Now the highest-paid player at the club with a reported salary of €4.5 million per year, Lacazette emphasized that the clarity over his future will allow him to fully focus on his performance. “I think I’m now in a great position to deliver on the pitch. It’s up to me to rise to the expectations of this new contract and play my role.”
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas, who confirmed the one-year extension earlier in the week, expressed confidence in Lacazette’s continued impact for the team as they prepare for a demanding domestic and European campaign.
With the contract saga behind him, Lacazette is now eager to concentrate on helping Lyon fight for silverware and make a strong impression in the Champions League this season.
