Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has described the return of France striker Alexandre Lacazette to Ligue 1 Uber Eats and boyhood club Olympique Lyonnais as “the one return that fills us with happiness and ambition.”

The Frenchman has finally returned to Lyon after five years with Premier League side Arsenal.

Speaking at the press conference to introduce the 31-year-old Lacazette, Aulas, a few hours before the official opening of the summer transfer window, said the club his happy to welcome him back to the club.

According to an announcement by the club, the striker, a graduate of the club’s renowned youth academy, has signed for the next three seasons.

This mean, Lacazette, a French international, could become a Lyon player until June 30, 2025.

He finally returned to his boyhood club after moving to Arsenal in July 2017 for a record €60m (including bonuses).

Lacazette arrived in Lyon in 2003 at the age of 12 and played 15 seasons, including eight for the senior team. He played 275 games and scored 129 goals, including 100 in Ligue 1 Uber Eats. He was also the Ligue 1 top scorer in 2014-15.

However, he was only able to rack up six goals and eight assists in 36 games for Arsenal last season.

Speaking on the club’s channel, the 31-year-old said the project was stronger (even without European qualification), and he felt useful both in the dressing room and on the pitch.

While noting that he has progressed in his leadership, the Frenchman hopes to find a great Lyon side and have a good season.

Meanwhile, Lacazette os yet to communicate his shirt number with Olympique Lyonnais for the moment. This is expected to be announced by the club soon.

Lacazette is expected to form a formidable partnership with Moussa Dembélé at the frontline next season. The latter had returned to the club after an unsuccessful loan stint with Atletico Madrid.

Written by: Oladipupuo Mojeed