Milan want Athekame back from Lyon loan

According to reports in the Italian press, Milan have considered bringing Zachary Athekame back from his loan spell at Olympique Lyonnais before the planned end date. However, according to the latest developments, neither the French club nor the player is warm to the proposal.

Athekame was loaned to Lyon in August for the 2026-27 season. He joined Rossoneri from Young Boys last summer for 10 million euros. The loan agreement contains no purchase option.

Playing as a right-back, Athekame has scored two goals and provided three assists in his first seven Ligue 1 matches. According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport and Calciomercato.com, Milan want to recall the Swiss international from his loan deal in January. The main reason is Samuel Chukwueze's new injury.

The Nigerian has played as a right wing-back in six of his seven Serie A appearances this season under Ruben Amorim. However, he will be out of action for two to three months with a hamstring injury. According to Calciomercato, Milan officials have recently contacted Lyon directly to discuss Athekame returning from his loan in January.

However, the player and the loaning club do not appear convinced by the idea. Athekame has become one of the key players under Paulo Fonseca. The former Milan head coach does not want to lose a player described as one of the best right-backs in France this season. According to the reports, Athekame wants to stay at Lyon because he has made a excellent start there, and is only considering a return to Milan after the 2026-27 season ends.