Marseille Director Admits Failed Attempt to Hijack Milan Loan Star from Lyon

FolioPitch.com – 10 October 2026 | In a revealing interview with L’Equipe, Marseille sporting director Gregory Lorenzi has admitted that the club made a concerted effort to sign Zachary Athekame before the defender ultimately joined Lyon on loan from AC Milan. The revelation, which has sparked intrigue across Ligue 1, means that a rival director reveals attempt was made to snatch Milan loan star from Lyon, shedding light on the fierce competition for young talent in French football.

Athekame, who arrived at Milan from Young Boys in 2024, struggled for regular minutes under Massimiliano Allegri last season. Consequently, the Rossoneri decided to loan him out for the 2026-27 campaign, with Lyon emerging as the ideal destination. The move was designed to provide the 21-year-old with consistent playing time in a competitive environment, under a coach in Paulo Fonseca who is known for trusting young players.

The decision has paid immediate dividends. Athekame has been a revelation at Lyon, amassing four goal contributions—two goals and two assists—in just six starts. His performances have not only cemented his place in Fonseca’s side but also earned him a call-up and first minutes with the senior Swiss national team. Such form has inevitably led to questions about whether Milan made the right call in letting him leave temporarily, but the club can take comfort in his development.

However, Lorenzi’s comments suggest that Lyon were not the only club vying for Athekame’s signature. “Athekame signed with Lyon. Genesio [the coach] spoke to him, I spoke to him… We had video calls with others, but it wasn’t possible to continue,” Lorenzi told L’Equipe. The Marseille director’s honesty highlights the behind-the-scenes battle that took place, and once again, a rival director reveals attempt was made to snatch Milan loan star from Lyon.

The failed pursuit is a testament to Athekame’s growing reputation. Marseille, who are managed by Bruno Genesio, were clearly keen to add the versatile full-back to their ranks. Genesio personally reached out to the player, as did Lorenzi, but the allure of working with Fonseca at Lyon proved decisive. The video calls with other targets ultimately came to nothing, as Athekame had his heart set on a move to the Groupama Stadium.

For Milan, the situation is a double-edged sword. On one hand, they will be delighted that Athekame is flourishing and increasing his market value. On the other, the interest from Marseille—and potentially other clubs—suggests that keeping him beyond the loan spell could be challenging. The Rossoneri have a rich history of developing young talents and will be hoping that Athekame’s success at Lyon translates into a future role at San Siro.

Lyon, meanwhile, will be grateful that they won the race. Fonseca’s side have benefited immensely from Athekame’s dynamism on the flank, and his contributions have helped them maintain a strong start to the season. The coach’s willingness to trust youth has been a key factor in the player’s rapid adaptation to Ligue 1.

The saga also underscores the increasingly competitive nature of recruitment in French football. Marseille’s admission that they missed out on a target to a direct rival is rare, and it highlights the persuasive power of a coach like Fonseca. As the season progresses, Athekame’s performances will continue to be scrutinized, and every standout display will serve as a reminder of what Marseille let slip away.

In conclusion, the revelation from Marseille’s sporting director adds a fascinating subplot to Athekame’s breakout season. It confirms that a rival director reveals attempt was made to snatch Milan loan star from Lyon, and that the battle for young talent is as intense as ever. For Milan, the focus will remain on monitoring his progress and planning for his future, while Lyon will look to enjoy his contributions for as long as they can. One thing is certain: Athekame’s journey is one to watch closely.