The rivalry between Olympique Lyonnais and Paris Saint-Germain has escalated once again. Tensions between the two clubs have been ongoing, particularly in the last 18 months, and were evident leading up to their recent match. A public argument between OL president John Textor and PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi was leaked before the game, with Textor accusing PSG and Al-Khelaifi of not acting in Ligue 1’s best interest.
Consequently, Al-Khelaifi did not attend Sunday’s game at the Groupama Stadium, while Textor arrived wearing a cowboy hat, referencing Al-Khelaifi’s insult from the leaked video call. PSG won the match 3-2.
PSG Contest Almada’s Involvement
Following the game, Lyon has decided to refer the registration of PSG forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (24), who transferred from Napoli for €70m in January, to the LFP’s Judiciary Commission. OL is citing articles 556 and 560 of the regulations. In his letter to the LFP, Textor argues that the transfer was only possible due to club financing (PSG), which violates rules prohibiting foreign subsidies. Therefore, OL contends that Kvaratskhelia’s registration as a PSG player breaches the LFP’s regulations.
Textor has consistently criticized PSG’s funding through their owners, Qatari Sports Investment (QSI). He has even threatened to take the matter to the European Court of Justice. While OL has officially challenged Kvaratskhelia’s participation, PSG has reciprocated by formally contesting Thiago Almada’s participation. Almada, an Argentinian player, joined on loan in January from partner club Botafogo, despite Les Gones being under a transfer ban.