Big changes at Olympique Lyonnais! On Monday morning, the club officially announced that American businessman John Textor has stepped down from all his executive duties at OL, including his role on the Board of Directors. The decision comes at a sensitive time for the club, which is facing both financial and institutional challenges.
Michele Kang Takes the Lead
In a surprise move, Michele Kang has been appointed as the new President of OL and CEO of Eagle Football Group. Already a member of the board since 2023 and a major stakeholder in the OL women’s team, Kang will now play a central role in guiding the club—particularly as it prepares to appeal a decision from French financial watchdog DNCG.
Experienced Backup: Michael Gerlinger Joins as CEO
Another key appointment: Michael Gerlinger, a respected former executive at Bayern Munich, is now the club’s General Manager. A specialist in football governance and sporting operations, Gerlinger is expected to steer OL’s administrative and sporting strategies going forward.
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Textor & Kang Speak Out
In the official statement, John Textor expressed pride in the club’s sporting progress and confidence in Kang’s leadership:
“Michele is the perfect choice to lead OL into its next chapter. I have complete faith in her and in OL, which will emerge stronger under her leadership.”
For her part, Michele Kang emphasized the importance of unity during this transition:
“We are entering a critical period for OL. I look forward to working closely with Michael, the leadership team, and the board to support the club through this challenge and beyond.”
A new chapter begins for Lyon. Now the question is: will this leadership shake-up finally bring the stability the club desperately needs?
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