Gift Orban faces possible disciplinary action at Lyon for social media comment

BY Issa Said
November 1, 2024
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Gift Orban may soon face disciplinary action from Olympique Lyonnais (OL) after his social media activity following the recent 2-2 draw between Lyon and AJ Auxerre. The Nigerian forward sparked disapproval among OL management and fans when he commented on an Instagram post by former Lyon player Sinaly Diomandé, who was instrumental in the match against his former club.

In the closely contested draw, Diomandé made a significant impact by scoring a goal and providing an assist

. As a former OL player who left under less-than-ideal circumstances after being sidelined by coach Pierre Sage, Diomandé’s strong performance and his post-match celebration in front of Lyon’s ultras were interpreted by some as a defiant statement. His actions stirred tension among the club’s fans and leadership.

Following the game, Diomandé shared a photo from the match on Instagram, and Orban responded with a seemingly innocent “Top” comment.

However, the message quickly drew ire from Lyon fans and management alike, who viewed it as an endorsement of Diomandé’s performance at OL’s expense.

The reaction was swift: Orban deleted the comment and issued a public apology on his social media platforms, clarifying his intentions and expressing regret for any offense caused.

“Excuse me, OL fans. I made this comment by mistake. It was just to encourage my friend, and I didn’t even realize it was a photo from our match.

We are working hard to win matches and trophies. For OL, I’m sorry. Thank you,” Orban wrote in his apology.

Despite his attempts to calm the situation, the incident has not fully appeased the Lyon hierarchy.

❗️Écarté du groupe face à Lille, Gift Orban va être sanctionné après son message polémique sur Instagram.

Orban va être reçu par la direction lyonnaise. Il risque de perdre sa prime d’éthique. Son message a été mal perçu au club même s’il a présenté ses excuses dans la foulée. pic.twitter.com/YyVWLcP6lB

— Fabrice Hawkins (@FabriceHawkins) October 31, 2024

According to journalist Fabrice Hawkins, OL’s management is considering further consequences, and Orban, who carries a €15 million valuation, is expected to meet with club officials to discuss his actions in the coming hours.

While seemingly minor, the situation underscores the tension within the club and the sensitivity around public perceptions of loyalty and commitment.

As Lyon seeks to improve its performance this season, club officials appear keen to maintain a united front, with any potential distractions under close scrutiny.

Orban’s comment, while intended as a show of sportsmanship, has highlighted the fine line players must walk on social media, especially when engaging with rival players.

Orban’s case will be watched closely, as it could signal a shift in the way Lyon, and potentially other clubs, handle similar incidents in the future.

With the player’s fate now in the hands of the OL disciplinary committee, he awaits the club’s decision on whether his actions will merit formal sanctions.