Olympique Lyonnais defender Zachary Athekame has addressed his long-term future in French football while clarifying his contractual ties to AC Milan, expressing an affinity for the Italian giants even as he focuses entirely on his commitments in the Rhône. Speaking from Switzerland’s international training camp, the 21-year-old fullback detailed the circumstances behind his summer switch to Ligue 1 and his ongoing development under the guidance of the Lyon coaching staff.
Athekame Clarifies San Siro Ties From Swiss Camp
Tactical Shift Prompted Summer Move to Ligue 1
Athekame arrived at Lyon during the summer transfer window on a straight loan deal from AC Milan.
The move was prompted by a shift in technical direction at San Siro, where a managerial change introduced a tactical setup that did not align with the defender’s specific attributes. Reflecting on his initial period in Italy, the player noted that he judged his debut season positively, adapting to a new and intensely tactical championship before holding direct discussions with the incoming Milan coaching staff regarding his playing prospects.
Parent Club Affinity Balanced With French Ambitions
Despite his temporary status in France, Athekame maintains a strong attachment to his parent club.
Addressing reporters during the international break, the defender stated that he considers himself firmly a Milan player while remaining deeply committed to his present assignment in Lyon. “I am a Milan player. Now I am in Lyon, but I would like to return,” Athekame explained, while emphasizing that his current focus centers entirely on performing for the French club and helping the team achieve its objectives for the season.
Embracing Responsibilities Across All Competitions
The young fullback has thrown himself into his responsibilities with Lyon since making the switch.
Describing his state of mind within the squad, Athekame affirmed his readiness to contribute across all competitions. “I am here to help the team and I am extremely happy. I will give everything,” he said. The loan arrangement allows the defender valuable minutes at a high level of competition, with decisions regarding his long-term career path deferred until the conclusion of the domestic campaign.
On-Field Performance Will Dictate Future Status
Future developments concerning his status will depend on his on-field performances through the remainder of the season and discussions between the two European clubs when the loan agreement expires.
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