The Portuguese international goalkeeper has not played any matches this season, after several years as the undisputed starter in goal for "Les Gones".
Out of contract and with no appearances to his name this season, Anthony Lopes is preparing to leave Lyon, the club where he has spent his entire professional career, marking the end of a long and loyal chapter.
For the 34-year-old Portuguese international goalkeeper, this represents a significant turning point, as he steps away from the team where he grew from an academy prospect to an undisputed starter and a fan favorite.
Reports from L’Équipe suggest that Lopes is set to join Nantes during the January transfer window. The deal on the table reportedly includes a six-month contract, with an option to extend depending on his performances. For Nantes, this move addresses their need for experienced reinforcements in goal, as they look to stabilize a season that has seen them struggle in the bottom half of the Ligue 1 standings.
This potential transfer follows a period of uncertainty and frustration for Lopes. After years of being a stalwart in goal for Lyon where he earned his reputation as one of Ligue 1's top shot-stoppers Lopes has found himself sidelined this season. The arrival of younger options, including Lucas Perri and Rémy Deschamps, pushed Lopes down the pecking order, relegating him to the role of third-choice goalkeeper. Despite his wealth of experience and long history with the club, Lyon's tactical evolution under new management has left no room for him in the first team.
Nantes’ interest in Lopes is not new. According to the same report, the club made efforts to sign him during the summer transfer window, but negotiations with Lyon broke down. At the time, the deal's failure left Lopes in a limbo, stuck at Lyon without a clear path back into the starting lineup. Now, with the January transfer window approaching, both parties appear ready to make the move happen, offering Lopes the chance to revitalize his career and contribute to a team in need.
The situation at Nantes adds another layer of intrigue to the move. Currently sitting in 14th place in Ligue 1 with just 14 points after 15 games, the club is in a precarious position, battling to distance itself from the relegation zone. Nantes has struggled defensively this season, conceding goals at a worrying rate, and their lack of stability in goal has been a notable issue. By bringing in Lopes, Nantes hopes to inject both quality and leadership into their backline, qualities the Portuguese goalkeeper has demonstrated throughout his career.
For Lopes, the move offers a fresh challenge and an opportunity to prove his worth at a new club. Having made over 400 appearances for Lyon across all competitions, Lopes is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in both domestic and European competitions. His agility, shot-stopping ability, and command of the penalty area have earned him respect across the league and beyond. Additionally, his leadership qualities and calm presence under pressure could be invaluable to a Nantes side in need of direction.
Lopes’ departure from Lyon also marks the end of an era for the club. A product of the academy, he made his first-team debut in 2012 and quickly established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. Over the years, he became a key figure in the squad, representing Lyon with distinction in Ligue 1, the Champions League, and the Europa League. His loyalty to the club and his consistency on the pitch made him a fan favorite, and his departure will undoubtedly leave a void.
As Lyon adjusts to life without one of its longest-serving players, the team continues its campaign in Ligue 1, sitting in fifth place with 25 points after 15 games. The club has shown signs of improvement under new management but still faces challenges in its quest to return to the top tier of French football. For Lyon, moving on from Lopes symbolizes a broader transition as they look to build a younger, more dynamic squad for the future.
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Anthony Lopes and Nantes to see if this move materializes. For Lopes, this is a chance to reignite his career and make a fresh start, while for Nantes, it represents an opportunity to address a critical area of weakness. If the deal goes through, it could prove to be a win-win for both player and club, potentially altering the trajectory of their respective seasons.
