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2 days ago
38 ARTICLE AD
Gift Orban’s Lyon adventure ended short. Recruited last winter for 14 million euros from La Gantoise, with whom he had tormented Belgian and even European defenses (in C4), the Nigerian striker will already have a change of scenery. Last year, the 22-year-old had already experienced a complicated first half-season (13 Ligue 1 matches, 1 goal), when he was blocked by competition from the untouchable Lacazette.
This season, his situation has become even more fragile, with a total downgrade under the orders of Pierre Sage, who used him only three times in Ligue 1, for a still honorable total of 2 goals (a double against Strasbourg during Lyon’s extraordinary 4-3 victory in August). However, not enough to secure a starting place in Lyon’s eleven, where Mikautadze and Lacazette start today with a head start. A twist of fate: Orban probably played his last minutes with Lyon… against his future club, Hoffenheim. It was December 10 in the Europa League (2-2).
A first big start at OL
Since this meeting which he had passed through like a ghost before leaving, the Nigerian had suffered a series of injuries and sidelines by Pierre Sage. The question of its future then arose, while Lyon, still on the radar of the DNCG after its temporary demotion, must absolutely downsize its workforce. In recent days, the newspaper The Team informed us of an offer from RC Lens for the player, but still far from the expectations of the Lyon leaders, since according to our information, the latter did not exceed 8 million euros (Lyon hoped for at least 12).
At the same time, Hoffenheim also made an offer, this time more able to meet Lyon’s demands, namely 10 million euros plus bonus. Discussions have further intensified between the two clubs in recent hours, and according to Relevothey should come to an end. As reported by the media, OL and Hoffenheim have reached a complete agreement on the transfer. Both parties are now working on the legal documentation, before formalizing the transfer.
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
