Leading French news outlet L’Equipe has shed light on the failed transfer of Ghanaian winger Ernest Nuamah from Olympique Lyon to English club Fulham, revealing a dramatic behind-the-scenes story.
According to the report, Lyon pressured Nuamah to make the move to England, a decision he was strongly against. The situation reached a point where Nuamah, visibly distressed, broke down in tears during his medical examination.
His emotional response was a clear indication of his reluctance to proceed with a transfer that conflicted with his personal and professional aspirations.
On transfer deadline day, Nuamah found himself at the centre of a tug of war between English clubs Fulham and Everton.
While the player had reportedly agreed to terms with Everton and was prepared to make the move, Lyon favoured a transfer to Fulham, having already reached a preliminary agreement with the London club for the talented Ghanaian forward.
Despite Lyon’s preference, Nuamah resisted the move to Fulham, citing his love for Lyon and viewing the switch as a step backward in his career.
Reports suggest that Nuamah even went so far as to abscond during the transfer process, leading both clubs to eventually abandon the deal.
L’Equipe also reported that Lyon’s owner, John Textor, acknowledged the mishandling of the situation and later issued an apology to Nuamah for attempting to force the move.
On the international front, Nuamah was notably left out of Ghana’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.