Lyon explored Karim Benzema return this summer | OneFootball

L'Équipe reports that Lyon’s hierarchy explored re-signing 2022 Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema this summer, despite many supporters believing the club lacked the funds.

The 38-year-old was keen on a one-season homecoming without pay out of loyalty to OL and his city, but Saudi League commitments proved an obstacle and he had not yet been released from his Al-Hilal contract.

He has since been a free agent for a week after mutually terminating his final year with Al-Hilal, having won one league, two cups and a player of the season award in Saudi Arabia. He remains an ambassador for the Saudi League until 2030, which blocks any move to another country.

Benzema stays closely tied to his hometown, returning whenever possible, and a vast mural adorns a building in Bron where he grew up.

In December, when asked about a return, he indicated the idea was delicate, that the future is uncertain and that sometimes it is better to leave things as they are.

Barring an unlikely twist, his Lyon story will remain pristine since his 2009 departure after four French titles, before lifting five Champions Leagues with Real Madrid and the Ballon d'Or that fulfilled his childhood dream.

Source: L'Équipe

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