Loïs Openda will rejoin Olympique Lyonnais on a season-long loan from Juventus, the clubs have confirmed. The deal is a paid loan, with Juventus set to receive €3 million for the temporary transfer of the Belgian forward. Openda departs Turin after a disappointing season in which he scored only two goals in 34 appearances across all competitions.
This move represents a return to Ligue 1 for Openda, where he previously established himself as a prolific goalscorer for Lens. During the 2022-23 season, he netted 21 goals in 38 matches, attracting the attention of several European clubs and ultimately securing a transfer to Juventus last summer. However, he struggled to replicate that form in Italy, failing to consistently feature in the starting lineup and experiencing a significant dip in his goal-scoring output.
Lyon will be hoping that a change of scenery will revitalize Openda’s career. The club is undergoing a period of rebuilding under coach Pierre Sage, and the addition of a proven goalscorer like Openda could be crucial to their ambitions. Lyon finished 14th in Ligue 1 last season, a significant underperformance for a club with their history and resources, and are aiming to climb back up the table.
Juventus, meanwhile, will be hoping the loan spell allows Openda to regain his confidence and value. The Serie A side paid around €24 million to sign him from Lens, and a successful loan period could potentially lead to a future sale at a higher price. The loan deal does not include an option for Lyon to purchase Openda outright, suggesting that Juventus still see him as a potential asset. His return to a league where he previously excelled offers a clear path towards regaining form and showcasing his abilities.
Openda has also represented Belgium at the international level, earning 12 caps and scoring three goals. The forward’s temporary move to Lyon provides him with an immediate opportunity to rediscover his scoring touch and potentially earn a place in the Belgium squad for Euro 2024.
