Zachary Athekame: Swiss-Nigerian full-back makes Lyon switch from AC Milan

Swiss-Nigerian right-back Zachary Athekame has joined Lyon from AC Milan on loan until 30 June 2027.

The 21-year-old defender moves to the Ligue 1 club after one season with Milan, who signed him from Swiss side Young Boys for €10m in August 2025. Athekame’s move to Lyon was completed on 14 August 2026, with his contract at the French club running until the end of the 2026-27 campaign.

Athekame has made 27 Serie A appearances during his career, scoring twice and providing two assists. He also has experience in the UEFA Champions League, having featured in eight matches, while his record in Switzerland includes 34 Super League appearances and 47 outings in the Challenge League.

Born in Geneva, Athekame began his senior career with Neuchatel Xamax after progressing through youth football in Switzerland. He joined Young Boys in January 2024 after a loan spell at Neuchatel Xamax, with the transfer subsequently made permanent for €1.5m.

His move to Milan followed 18 months with Young Boys and represented a significant step up from Swiss domestic football to Serie A. Athekame is listed as a right-back and is predominantly right-footed. He stands 1.81m tall and holds both Swiss and Nigerian nationality.

Lyon have now added the defender to their squad for the 2026-27 season, bringing him into Ligue 1 after his spell in Italy. His market value is listed at €15m, although the completed move to France is a loan rather than a permanent transfer.

Athekame’s temporary switch from AC Milan to Lyon runs through 30 June 2027.