Karim Benzema nearly returned to Lyon this Summer

Karim Benzema came close to rejoining Olympique Lyonnais this summer, with the 38-year-old ready to make a major financial sacrifice to go back to his boyhood club.

According to L’Équipe, Lyon’s management approached the Al-Hilal striker, who was enthusiastic about returning to the team where he developed through the academy.

Benzema was even prepared to play without receiving a salary, underlining how strongly he felt about the potential homecoming. The move ultimately could not be completed because he remained under contract with Al-Hilal at the time. His ongoing role as an ambassador for the Saudi Pro League, which runs until 2030, also complicated any potential return to France.

Despite the failed transfer, Benzema remains deeply attached to Lyon, the club where he won four league titles before his 2009 move to Real Madrid. His willingness to take a pay cut highlights the emotional pull of a return, even at this stage of his career.

For now, Benzema continues his stint in Saudi Arabia, but the episode shows how close he came to ending his journey where it began. Lyon supporters will remember the affection he still holds for the club, even if circumstances prevented a sentimental reunion this summer.