The executive committee of the French Football Association has unanimously proposed former Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas for the position of vice-president, according to an official communiqué from the FFF. The decision was made during a meeting chaired by current president Philippe Diallo, which is set to be presented at the next federal assembly on December 16th in Paris.
The legendary former president of OL, who has been a member of the executive committee himself since 2017, stated “I am very proud and happy for the trust placed in me. I will dedicate all my energy, experience, and passion for football to serve the FFF and the greater interests of French football. My commitment will be total, reflecting my involvement in the professionalisation plan for women’s football that we are implementing with the Professional Women’s Football League of the Federation.”
“Suggesting Jean-Michel Aulas for the position of Vice-Chairman seemed logical and legitimate,” said President Diallo on the proposal. “I am delighted that he has accepted this proposal, and that the entire Executive Committee has agreed with me. His experience in men’s and women’s football, at the highest level, in training and his economic expertise represent a considerable asset for our Federation,” explained the executive of French football.
A leader of women’s football in France and statesman of the game
After 36 years in charge, Aulas stepped down from his honorary president role at Lyon following tensions with American owner John Textor. The enigmatic Frenchman took over the club burdened with debt and in the second division 35 years ago and transformed it into one of Europe’s top clubs. Under his leadership, Lyon won seven consecutive French league titles from 2002 to 2008.
Aulas has also had a big role to play in the development of Lyon as a major force in women’s football and has since continued this work presiding over the women’s game within the French FA.
