Thursday, 6th September, 2012
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has declared the club’s policy of bringing costs down to have been highly effective over the summer.
Aulas’ men cashed in on goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, left-back Aly Cissokho, midfielder Kim Kallstrom, and veteran centre-back Cris, amongst others, making a big dent in Lyon’s wage bill and player value costs.
With a new stadium being constructed and Lyon also out of the Champions League for this season, saving money was an essential objective for Les Gones – and it is one Aulas has succeeded in.
"We lowered the net fixed assets in terms of players from €90M to €55M-€60M by 30th June. This means that we will have less depreciation in the coming years", said the Lyon supremo.
"Therefore, wages plus depreciation. This is a saving of around €30M year on year."
Aulas denied however that Les Gones would have been in trouble without slashing costs, insisting that it was simply good housekeeping.
"This does not mean that it was a question of life or death, but an obligation of good management.
"All clubs must taken note of the UEFA financial fair play rules for European competitions and aim for a balance."
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