Loaned by Racing 92 to Lou this season, Martin Méliande has definitively sealed his future. After being one of the great architects of the draw snatched at the Paris La Défense Arena against his former club (25-25), the young 23-year-old fly-half/back announced that he will continue the adventure with Lyon for the next three seasons. A strong decision, in a context where the competition is unforgiving.
A Sunday full of emotions
Against Racing, the Béarnais shone. His precise foot allowed his team to get back together at the end of the match, with a corner conversion of Semi Radradra's try (76th) followed by a penalty on the siren. But this shock had a particular flavor for Méliande, who faced the club where he had not found his place.
Arriving in 2022 after a notable stint at US Bressane, the versatile fly-half/back had only played 14 games in two seasons in the sky and white jersey. A lack of playing time which pushed him to try the adventure in Lyon, a choice which is paying off: he has already made 14 appearances this season.
“At Racing, I had good times, both on and off the field. But now I'm in Lyon and I feel very good there.”, he confided after the match, visibly relieved to turn this page. “This meeting was special, but I didn’t feel any particular pressure.”
A decision that makes the LOU smile
Asked about his future during the press conference, Méliande made no bones about it: “I know what I will do next season. I will stay at Lyon and I will sign a three-year contract.”
An admission which provoked a smile from Fabien Gengenbacher, Lou's manager, present behind the scenes. For the Lyon club, this signing is excellent news. Méliande has established himself as an essential asset for the Rhone collectivecapable of shining both at the opening and at the back.
Racing, loser of the day
If Méliande was a breath of fresh air for Lyon this Sunday, his performance must have made the Racing 92 side cringe. The player's decision marks a definitive break with the Ile-de-France club, which will now have to find other solutions to strengthen its squad.
