Mohamed Yattara Extends Lyon Contract Amid Promising Pre-Season
Olympique Lyonnais striker Mohamed Yattara has signed a contract extension with the French club, committing his future to the side until June 2018.
The 20-year-old Guinean international, who had one year remaining on his previous deal, agreed terms after reportedly receiving assurances over his role in the first team under new manager Hubert Fournier. The announcement was made official by Lyon on Tuesday.
Yattara, a product of OL’s youth academy, has spent much of his early career out on loan, gaining experience at several Ligue 2 clubs. His most recent loan spell at Angers was particularly productive, where he scored 11 goals and registered two assists in the league last season, finishing with 15 goals in all competitions.
The forward has made a strong case for inclusion in Lyon’s plans for the upcoming campaign, especially after finding the net in OL’s opening pre-season friendly against Hungarian side Debrecen over the weekend. His early form has reportedly impressed Fournier, who had previously attempted to secure Yattara on loan while in charge of Stade de Reims.
Yattara’s return to Lyon comes at a transitional period for the club, which is looking to re-establish itself among Ligue 1’s elite under the guidance of Fournier, following a string of inconsistent seasons. The club sees the young striker as a key part of its offensive options going forward.
“I’m very happy to extend my contract,” said Yattara in a statement. “I want to show that I can play an important role here. It’s a big club, and I want to contribute to its success.”
Yattara made his professional debut for Lyon in 2010 but has been gradually developed through loan spells at Arles-Avignon, Troyes, and Angers. His powerful forward play and keen eye for goal have caught the attention of the Lyon coaching staff, who now appear ready to integrate him more fully into the senior setup.
Lyon will be hoping that Yattara’s extended stay can help bolster their attacking line, which has occasionally struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons. With the club opting to rely more heavily on its youth academy products, Yattara’s contract extension reflects a long-term investment in homegrown talent.
Lyon begin their Ligue 1 campaign in early August and Yattara will be aiming to build on his promising pre-season to secure a regular starting spot.
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