Utrecht has secured Justin Kluivert, a player once representing a multi-million euro investment for Olympique Lyonnais, after his departure from the French club in 2023. the move brings a player with Champions League experience to the Dutch Eredivisie, though his time in Lyon was marked by the club’s severe financial difficulties.
Lyon’s financial mismanagement, resulting in hundreds of millions of euros in debt, nearly lead to relegation to the second French level this summer, a decision ultimately reversed.To stabilize finances, lyon sold key players like Rayan Cherki and former Ajax player Georges Mikautadze last summer, yet still found room for acquisitions, including Kluivert. Despite limited opportunities – “I have to make it as difficult as possible for the boys who are now and then it is up to the trainer to decide,” Kluivert stated – he contributed to a strong start to the season,with Lyon winning four of their first five league games.
FC Utrecht faces Olympique lyonnais tonight at 9 p.m.,with Lyon considered the strong favourite despite their recent turmoil. Utrecht trainer ron Jans acknowledged Lyon’s strength: ”Physical and strong… a good team.” The Europa League duel can be followed on Along the line and surroundings on NPO Radio 1, with a summary in the late journal at 11:05 pm, and via a live blog on NOS.nl and the NOS app.
