Ernest Nuamah’s highly anticipated move to Olympique Lyonnais has yet to yield the expected breakthrough, with the Ghanaian winger’s second season at the club marred by injury, inconsistency, and stalled development.
Following a promising debut campaign while on loan from Nordsjælland, hopes were high when Nuamah joined Lyon on a permanent basis.
However, a mix of physical setbacks and off-pitch pressures has seen the 21-year-old struggle to replicate the form that made him one of Ghana’s brightest young prospects.
Injury has played a central role in his decline. Persistent muscular problems disrupted his rhythm early in the season.
The situation worsened significantly last month when Nuamah suffered a torn cruciate ligament—an injury that will sideline him for an extended period.
The long road to recovery could prove both physically and mentally challenging, potentially hindering his ability to return to top form.
“He needs to take the time to develop at OL,” former Ghana international Sulley Muntari remarked, acknowledging the difficult road ahead for the young forward.
On the pitch, Nuamah has struggled to deliver consistently.
While flashes of brilliance have been evident, they have too often been followed by anonymous displays.
In 33 appearances across all competitions this season, he has registered just six goals and two assists—modest returns for a player of his potential.
A mid-season managerial change at Lyon further complicated matters.
The departure of Pierre Sage and arrival of Paolo Fonseca introduced tactical shifts and reshuffled player roles, leaving Nuamah to once again prove his worth in a squad rich with attacking options.
Transfer speculation has also taken its toll.
After a rocky start to the season, the winger was heavily linked with a move away from Lyon during the winter window.
Although interest from other clubs was concrete, Lyon opted to block the transfer, leaving Nuamah in a state of limbo.
The uncertainty surrounding his future may have added psychological pressure, affecting both his focus and form.
Despite a strong first season on loan, Nuamah has seen his playing time dwindle since making the switch permanent.
The lack of minutes has curtailed his development, denying him the continuity necessary to build confidence and chemistry within the squad.
Still under contract with Lyon until 2028 and earning €850,000 annually (approximately 552.5 million FCFA), Nuamah’s market value remains at €15 million.
Whether he can recapture his momentum and fulfill his promise remains to be seen, but Lyon and the player alike now face a crucial phase in determining what comes next.
