Zachary Athekame is keeping his long-term sights fixed on AC Milan despite a summer loan move to Olympique Lyonnais, admitting that his future in club football remains distinctly rossonero. The 21-year-old Swiss defender, who made 27 total appearances for Milan last season, joined Lyon on a straight loan deal after a managerial shift altered his tactical outlook in Italy.
Rossonero Ties Remain Intact Despite Lyon Loan
Reflecting on his debut campaign in Serie A following a reported transfer from Young Boys for approximately 10 million Swiss francs, Athekame offered a balanced assessment of his time under Massimiliano Allegri and the transition that followed. “I evaluate my first season with the Milan positively,” Athekame said. “I felt good, it was a new championship, more tactical. Then there was the change on the bench, I spoke with the new manager and I decided to change shirt.”
Tactical Shifts and the San Siro Exit
That managerial change brought Rúben Amorim to the San Siro. With Amorim favoring a three-man defensive system and demanding more offensive output from his wing-backs, while the Swiss youth product prefers operating in a four-man backline, a temporary departure materialised. Milan retained full control of the player’s registration through a straight loan arrangement, signaling continued belief in his development.
Immediate Impact in Ligue 1
The switch to Ligue 1 has yielded immediate returns. Athekame has featured in five matches for Lyon, starting every fixture and contributing two goals alongside two assists. Those numbers have quickly thrust him into prominent discussions ahead of Switzerland’s upcoming international commitments.
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Athekame emerges as a leading candidate to step into the vacancy, bringing renewed confidence from his French league exploits.
Still, a strong desire remains to cement a regular spot with the senior squad after missing out on World Cup selection—an outcome he openly describes as a disappointment, though he maintained his support as the team’s primary fan during their tournament run.
Unwavering Ambition for a San Siro Return
For now, Athekame’s immediate focus centers on international duty and maintaining his productive club form in France. Yet his ultimate ambition in club football is unchanged. “In Milan I found myself very well, I am a Milan player,” Athekame said. “Now I am in Lyon, but I would like to return.”
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