Mahamadou Diawara wants to leave Lyon in January | OneFootball

Mahamadou Diawara (19) has informed Olympique Lyonnais of his desire to leave the club in January, either on loan or on a permanent deal, according to a report from L’Équipe.

Diawara, who joined Lyon from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer in the summer of 2023, began his life with OL well but saw his playing time decrease as the season wore on. Attentive to the situation, multiple clubs, both in France and abroad, showed an interest in signing the midfielder. However, Les Gones showed unwillingness to negotiate a departure for their talented prospect.

However, Diawara has played just 37 minutes of football this season. It is within this context that he has informed Lyon’s hierarchy of a desire to leave the club in January, either on loan or on a permanent deal, in order to get game time.

Celtic to return for Diawara?

L’Équipe understands that FC Nantes, Stade de Reims, Stade Brestois, Montpellier HSC, and Celtic all showed interest in the midfielder in the summer. “Some” of those teams may return to try their luck again in January; given recent developments, they may have more luck in luring the France youth international away from the club.

Diawara’s situation is a result of OL’s objective to reach the UEFA Champions League next season, which doesn’t necessarily allow for opportunities for young players. Saël Kumbedi (19) is also a victim of this situation and could also leave Lyon, either on loan or permanently this January.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle