For all those who have been around the two men for a long time, this support is not artificial. Armand Garrido, former OL trainer, speaks of a “respectful and grateful” relationship. More broadly, this support is part of a never-broken attachment to Lyon. Although he rarely appears, Karim Benzema continues to return regularly to the region to see his loved ones, often discreetly. A modest link, but also evidenced by the fresco with his image visible in Bron, at the exit of Lyon, on the ring road, a permanent reminder of his local roots.
Aiko Tanaka
Aiko Tanaka is a combat sports journalist and general sports reporter at Archysport. A former competitive judoka who represented Japan at the Asian Games, Aiko brings firsthand athletic experience to her coverage of judo, martial arts, and Olympic sports. Beyond combat sports, Aiko covers breaking sports news, major international events, and the stories that cut across disciplines — from doping scandals to governance issues to the business side of global sport. She is passionate about elevating the profile of underrepresented sports and athletes.
