Anthony Lopes has officially completed his move from Olympique Lyonnais to FC Nantes, marking the end of his long career at Lyon after 24 years. The goalkeeper, who has made 489 appearances for Lyon, reached an agreement to terminate his contract with the club, having found himself sidelined since August.
Lopes, 34, had been unable to secure any playing time this season, losing his starting position to Brazilian Lucas Perri, who was signed from Botafogo last January. The Portuguese international, who was capped 14 times, including as part of the national team during their Euro 2016 win, now embarks on his new adventure with Nantes on an initial six-month contract. Impressively, his contract includes the option for extension lasting up to two more years, should his performance meet the club’s expectations.
Nantes, currently battling against relegation and sitting precariously at 14th place on the Ligue 1 table with just three wins from 15 matches, sees the experienced goalkeeper as a significant asset. With only one point separating them from the relegation zone, securing Lopes could be pivotal as they look to stabilize their lineup and improve results. The arrival coincides with the sidelining of former first-choice keeper Alban Lafont, indicating Lopes' importance to the club's strategy.
The transfer, confirmed on December 30, 2024, signals both the end of Lopes’ chapter at Lyon and the beginning of another at Nantes, where he will aim to regain his footing as the first-choice goalkeeper. Lyon's decision to let go of their most experienced player raises eyebrows, particularly as they must navigate through financial difficulties and potential relegation concerns mandated by the DNCG, which oversees financial regulations in French football. With looming player sales to alleviate their financial burden, Lopes’ departure marks the first of what could be several significant changes at Lyon.
Nantes warmly welcomed Lopes, promoting the news across their social media platforms, and it was clear they are ecstatic about adding someone of his caliber to their squad. The club's official announcement emphasized Lopes' experience and prior achievements at Lyon, framing it as not just a signing but as a strategic move to reinforce their efforts this season.
The goalkeeper’s contract with Lyon was terminated by mutual consent, facilitating his move to Nantes after previous interest wasn’t materialized last summer. Lopes not playing any matches this season has surely aggravated the situation, and his past performances at Lyon had distinguished him as one of the key players, not only for his club but also for the national team.
The road moving forward seems challenging for Lyon, who now look to Brazilian Lucas Perri as their main shot-stopper. The club is perched on the edge of financial instability, needing to sell off valuable players to comply with oversight regulations and avoid relegation to Ligue 2 due to its financial mismanagement.
Nantes, on the other hand, hopes Lopes can help them steer clear of relegation, assuming his signature exhibits the club's ambition to solidify its position. The collective efforts are to not only keep Nantes afloat within Ligue 1 but to also mark Lopes’ resurgence after such a notable career downturn.
The emotional connection Lopes established with Lyon has been encapsulated by the swift messages from the club following his departure, branding his exit with sentiments expressing gratitude: "Thanks, Anthony!" This reflects not only Lopes' contributions to Lyon but also the nostalgia enveloping his exit from the club where he spent so many years.
The next match for Lopes could see him don the yellow and green of Nantes for the first time, as the club has teased the possibility of his debut occurring next weekend against LOSC Lille. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how their new signing fits within the team dynamics during this trying season.
Overall, this significant transfer heralds new beginnings for Anthony Lopes, as he bridges the gap between his past at Lyon and his future at Nantes. For both clubs, the ramifications are vast, as they grapple with immediate needs against the backdrop of larger strategic goals.