As the final match of the Première Ligue against Paris FC approached, emotions still ran high among Lyon Olympique Lyonnais players. Frustration, lingering disappointment, and a burning desire to bounce back dominated the conversations within the team.

Captain Wendie Renard on the emotional toll

Wendie Renard, the team’s captain, admitted the defeat in the Champions League final was still hard to come to terms with. Yet, she emphasized the professional duty to move forward: “Of course, this loss weighs heavily on us. But we must act like professionals and focus on the next challenge. What’s done is done, and we can’t change it.” She also acknowledged the collective disappointment in the locker room: “I may be the captain, but every single one of us feels the same heartbreak.” Despite the emotional weight, Renard expressed optimism for a swift recovery: “We’re going through a tough time, but our only goal now is to come back stronger, faster.”

Jonatan Giráldez highlights the team’s resilience

Jonatan Giráldez, the team’s Spanish coach, shared a similar sentiment, recalling the tough days immediately after the final. “The first day back, the disappointment was palpable. We had prepared so hard for this match, and the outcome was devastating.” While acknowledging the final score didn’t reflect the team’s true performance, he remained hopeful: “I believe our team deserved better.” Understanding the mental strain of such a loss, he stressed the urgency of regaining momentum: “It’s natural to feel the weight of this defeat, but we must fight through it within two to three days.”

Lindsey Horan reflects on a bittersweet season

Lindsey Horan, visibly moved during her address, conveyed the depth of her emotions after the Oslo final. With her last match for OL Lyonnes looming, the American midfielder didn’t shy away from her sadness: “It’s really tough for me.” Despite the crushing disappointment, she refused to let this single moment define her season: “I have no regrets about how the year unfolded.” Deeply connected to the club and her teammates, she expressed her hope to end her Lyon journey on a high note with another trophy at the Groupama Stadium.

Looking ahead: turning the page

With the Champions League dream shattered, Lyon Olympique Lyonnais now sets its sights on securing an additional national title to close the season on a positive note.