Nabil Fekir Commits Future to Lyon, Eyes Key Role in Upcoming Season
Nabil Fekir has reaffirmed his commitment to Olympique Lyonnais by extending his contract with the Ligue 1 club. The 20-year-old Franco-Algerian midfielder, who emerged as a standout player in the latter half of last season, signed a new three-year deal, securing his future at the Rhône club until 2017.
Fekir, a product of Lyon’s renowned academy, has already made his mark in France’s top flight. Last season, he featured in 11 league matches, contributing one goal and two assists, while also appearing four times in the Europa League. His performances have caught the attention of the club’s new head coach, Hubert Fournier, who is expected to integrate the young talent more prominently into his plans for the coming campaign.
In an exclusive interview with 20 Minutes, Fekir revealed his preferred playing position. “I haven’t spoken with the coach yet, but I think he knows that I’m most comfortable playing in support of one or two strikers,” he said. “That’s where I feel best, even though it will be tough to get playing time there with players like Yo and Clem [Yoann Gourcuff and Clément Grenier].”
Despite the competition, Fekir emphasized his readiness and adaptability. “There’s no problem. I’m competitive but also patient. I can play in all attacking positions,” he added, highlighting his versatility as an asset.
As the new season approaches, Lyon’s ambitions remain focused on challenging the dominance of Paris Saint-Germain and AS Monaco, who have openly declared their intentions to fight for the Ligue 1 title. Behind these two powerhouses, a competitive battle is expected among clubs such as Lyon, AS Saint-Étienne, Lille OSC, and Olympique de Marseille, all eager to claim what many in French football regard as “the normal championship”—the fight for European qualification and domestic pride.
Fekir’s contract extension is a strong signal that Lyon see him as a key figure in their plans to reclaim a spot among France’s elite. His development is watched closely by supporters who hope the promising midfielder can replicate and surpass his breakthrough performances in the new season.
With a blend of youthful energy and technical skill, Fekir is poised to play an influential role in a Lyon side determined to break the PSG-Monaco duopoly and re-establish itself as a consistent challenger in Ligue 1.
