French Criticize Textor’s Management of Lyon: ‘Who Will Foot the Bill?’
Filmogaz.com has published a hard-hitting article about John Textor and the financial state of Olympique Lyonnais. French criticism has focused on Textor’s management of Lyon, asking who will foot the bill for the club’s mounting liabilities.
Background and ownership
John Textor owns Eagle Football and is the majority shareholder in Botafogo, Lyon and RWD Molenbeek. He also controls the SAF of Botafogo. Textor left the Lyon presidency in June 2025 after creditors removed him.
Contested transfer deals
The report says Lyon spent €120 million between July 2024 and March 2025 on five players from Botafogo. Four of those signings never appeared for Lyon.
- Igor Jesus
- Luiz Henrique
- Jair Cunha
- Jefferson Savarino
Allegations of phantom transfers
Filmogaz.com described several operations as “phantom transfers.” The transactions are seen as lacking substance and still unresolved.
Use of factoring and resulting liabilities
Textor reportedly used factoring firms to finance the deals. That model advances future income in exchange for high fees.
Those arrangements now appear as real liabilities on Lyon’s balance sheet. The transactions remain legally and financially open.
Legal action and financial figures
Bloomberg recently reported a claim from MC Credit Partners. The firm demands $42 million linked to the Igor Jesus negotiation, including penalties and interest.
The interest figure cited is about 10% per month. Separately, Lyon’s debt rose by €255 million over three years under Textor’s tenure.
Other contested moves
Lyon declined to comment on a July transfer of a Botafogo player to Nottingham Forest for €19 million. The club continues to face multiple judicial processes.
Sporting context
Paulo Fonseca remains in charge of the first team. The coach is trying to stabilize results while the club manages the financial fallout.
Unanswered question
Filmogaz.com stresses the central question of accountability. With mounting claims and ongoing cases, it remains unclear who will foot the bill.
