OFFICIAL: Mariano Leaves Real Madrid For Lyon

By Vishal Singh | July 1, 2017 |

REUTERS/Andrea Comas

Mariano Diaz has left Real Madrid and signed for Ligue 1 outfit Olympique Lyonnais, in a deal worth €8 million.

The young striker has found first team football hard to come by in the Spanish capital, and knows the situation had little to change in terms of improvement next season.

Despite being a prolific scorer for the Real Madrid B side since joining the capital club in 2012, the strength and squad depth of the first team meant the youngster was better off seeking pastures new.

The announcement also closely follows Lyon landing young Chelsea talent Bertrand Traore, with whom Mariano will be looking forward to forming an energetic, youthful striker partnership. Having already made his international debut with Dominican Republic, he will also be looking to add to his solitary cap next year.

Real Madrid announced the move on their website by stating: “The club wants to show its gratitude for these years of dedication and professionalism and wishes him good luck in his next chapter.”

The Spaniard had made bit part appearances last season, making 10 appearances and scoring 5 goals in the league and Copa del Rey.

Chances are likely to come at a greater frequency at Lyon, as the club will be looking for some firepower to replace star striker Alexandre Lacazette, who has been strongly linked with an exit this summer.

 

 

Les Gones will be looking to build on a respectable fourth placed finish in the Ligue 1 next season, and are expected to sign more players to supplement their squad before the transfer window slams shut.

Mariano marks their fourth signing of the summer, following the captures of Traore, Fernando Mercal from Benfica, and Ferland Mendy from Le Havre. The potential exit of Lacazette will also free up funds for more purchases.

 

Written by Naren Madan  

Freelance writer with an insatiable appetite for all things football. Up the Chels!

 

Leave a Comment