Nicolás Tagliafico has not yet spoken with Olympique Lyon's management about a contract extension. The 32-year-old Argentine has confirmed this himself. His contract expires this summer.
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Nicolás Tagliafico finds himself at a crossroads in his career as he nears the expiration of his contract with Olympique Lyon.
The Argentine left-back, who established himself as one of the most consistent full-backs in European football during his time at Ajax, is once again proving his value despite struggling with injuries earlier this season. Since recovering, he has regained his spot in Lyon’s starting eleven, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable and experienced presence in the backline.
While reports from French media suggest that Lyon is eager to extend his contract, there have been no official discussions between the player and the club’s management. "I haven’t spoken with the club yet," Tagliafico confirmed in an interview with Olympique-et-Lyonnais, making it clear that his future remains uncertain. At 32, the World Cup-winning defender is at a stage where his next contract will likely be one of the most significant decisions of his career, and he is carefully weighing his options.
One of the key factors in Tagliafico’s decision-making process is the opportunity to play in the Champions League, a competition he values highly. Lyon, currently sixth in Ligue 1, is outside the automatic qualification spots for Europe’s elite competition, but with only four points separating them from third-placed OGC Nice, the race is far from over. The left-back acknowledges that Lyon’s final league position could have a major influence on his choice. "If we secure a top-four finish and qualify for the Champions League, then there are possibilities. Why not? It all depends on how the season ends and the options I receive from other clubs," he explained.
Tagliafico has built a strong reputation throughout his career, known for his aggressive defensive style, work rate, and leadership on the pitch. His time at Ajax saw him win multiple Eredivisie titles while also playing a crucial role in the club’s memorable Champions League run in 2018-19. That experience, along with his role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, makes him an attractive target for several clubs looking to add an experienced and versatile left-back to their squad.
Despite Lyon’s interest in keeping him, several European clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation. With his contract set to expire in the summer, Tagliafico will have the freedom to negotiate with other clubs and explore different possibilities. While staying in Ligue 1 remains an option, a return to the Netherlands, a potential move to a top-tier team in Spain or Italy, or even an adventure in another league cannot be ruled out.
For now, his focus remains on the current season and helping Lyon finish as high as possible in the standings. The club has had an inconsistent campaign, but recent improvements have sparked hope that they can secure European qualification. Tagliafico’s leadership and experience will be crucial in the final stretch of the season as Lyon battles for a top-four finish.
In addition to his domestic ambitions, Tagliafico also had the possibility of facing a familiar opponent in the Europa League. A potential reunion with Ajax seemed likely when Lyon entered the Round of 16 draw, but the Amsterdam club was instead paired with Eintracht Frankfurt. Instead, Lyon will face Steaua Bucharest in what is expected to be a challenging knockout tie. While the Argentine missed out on a direct clash with his former club, the possibility of meeting Ajax later in the tournament remains alive.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Tagliafico and his next move. Whether he extends his stay at Lyon or chooses a new challenge elsewhere, his decision will be closely watched by fans and clubs across Europe. For now, the defender remains focused on performing at the highest level and ensuring that he finishes the campaign in the strongest possible way, with his future to be decided in the coming months.
