AC Milan Send Zachary Athekame to Lyon on Season-Long Loan

AC Milan have reportedly reached an agreement with Lyon to send Zachary Athekame to the French club on a season-long loan. The Swiss international will spend the upcoming campaign in Ligue 1 without a permanent purchase option, meaning he is expected to return to San Siro in the summer of 2027.

The move comes after Athekame struggled to make a strong impression during Milan's preseason preparations. With the defender seemingly outside Ruben Amorim's main plans for the new campaign, a temporary move to France could provide the 20-year-old with a better opportunity to play regularly and continue his development.

Lyon are reportedly prepared to cover Athekame's full salary throughout the loan spell. The arrangement gives the defender a chance to rebuild his confidence and gain valuable experience in a competitive league before returning to Milan. The absence of a purchase clause also indicates that the Rossoneri still see a potential future for him at the club.

Milan signed Athekame from Young Boys just one year ago for a reported €10 million plus bonuses. During his first season in Italy, he made 29 competitive appearances, scoring twice and registering two assists. Although those numbers showed flashes of potential, his overall contribution was not enough to secure a regular role in Milan's plans.

Athekame remains under contract with Milan until June 2030, so the upcoming season at Lyon represents an important stage in his career. Regular playing time in France could help him improve his consistency, gain greater tactical maturity, and return to San Siro better prepared to compete for a place in the Milan squad.