Malick Fofana Returns from Ankle Injury, Boosts Lyon’s Attack
Belgian winger Malick Fofana returned to training and competitive action for Olympique Lyonnais in July 2026 after a nine-month absence due to a severe right ankle injury. He played 20 minutes in a friendly against Wolfsburg in Bamberg, Germany, providing an assist in a 2-0 win. His recovery is timely for Lyon’s Champions League qualifier against Sparta Prague. Separately, Lyon is in talks to loan Juventus forward Loïs Openda.
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Malick Fofana Returns from Ankle Injury in Lyon Friendly Win
Malick Fofana, the Belgian winger for Olympique Lyonnais, made his return to the pitch after a nine-month absence due to a right ankle injury. He played in a preparatory friendly match against Wolfsburg in Bamberg, Germany, which Lyon won 2-0. Fofana was involved in the build-up to Lyon's second goal, showing encouraging signs. After the match, he stayed for extra training with physical trainer Alexandre Farhi under the watch of performance director Antonin Da Fonseca, and was greeted by young fans seeking autographs and photos. The article highlights his enduring popularity, noting that he was previously scouted by Bayern Munich. The match marks a significant step in his recovery and return to form.
Malick Fofana returns from injury, assists in OL friendly win over Wolfsburg
Malick Fofana, the Belgian winger for Olympique Lyonnais (OL), made his long-awaited return from a right ankle injury during a pre-season friendly against Wolfsburg in Bamberg, Germany. The match ended 2-0 in favor of Lyon. Fofana, who had been sidelined for months, played a decisive role by providing the assist for Lyon's second goal. His popularity remained evident as young fans waited after the match for selfies and photos. The performance is seen as an encouraging sign for OL ahead of the new season, especially given Fofana's prior reputation that had attracted interest from top clubs like Bayern Munich.
Malick Fofana Returns from Injury; Lyon in Talks to Loan Juventus Forward Openda
French media L'Équipe reports that Lyon winger Malick Fofana made his return to competitive action after nearly nine months out with a severe right ankle injury, playing 20 minutes in a friendly against Wolfsburg. The 21-year-old Belgian, once tracked by Bayern Munich, assisted in the build-up to Lyon's second goal and received praise from teammates and coach Paulo Fonseca. Separately, Lyon and Juventus are discussing a loan deal for forward Loïs Openda, formerly of Lens, who is interested in joining the club. Fonseca confirmed that more signings are expected in the coming days to strengthen the squad.
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Malick Fofana Returns to Group Training for Lyon
Olympique Lyonnais (OL) received positive news as Belgian winger Malick Fofana returned to group training on July 21, 2026. His absence during early preseason friendlies had raised concerns, especially given the attacking sector was already weakened by Afonso Moreira's departure. The 21-year-old's return is timely for OL as they prepare for the crucial third preliminary round of the Champions League against Sparta Prague in early August. The club published images of Fofana training with the squad, confirming his recovery and availability for upcoming matches.
Malick Fofana Returns with Good News for Lyon
Olympique Lyonnais (OL) received positive news regarding Belgian winger Malick Fofana, who had been a major concern at the start of the season after a severe ankle injury cut short his previous campaign. Fofana had not played any minutes in preseason friendlies, raising alarm for coach Paulo Fonseca, especially after the sale of Afonso Moreira to Bayer Leverkusen and the need for Julien Duranville to prove himself as a starter. However, on July 20, 2026, OL published a video on social media showing Fofana joining his teammates during the training camp in Germany, having been absent earlier for medical tests. In the video, Fonseca stated that Fofana returned with good news, suggesting the 21-year-old's return to action may be imminent. The development provides a boost to Lyon's attacking options as they prepare for the upcoming season.