Ainsley Maitland-Niles could be leaving Olympique Lyonnais just a few months after arriving, raising questions about his future following his departure from Arsenal.

Olympique Lyonnais are reportedly considering the sale of midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles, just months after the English player’s transfer to the club, according to L’Équipe.

Maitland-Niles, who joined Lyon on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal, has faced challenges in establishing himself at the Ligue 1 club.

Since his arrival at the Groupama Stadium, Maitland-Niles has made only seven appearances, totalling a paltry 286 minutes. In that time, he has delivered just one assist for Lyon, contributing to a tight, but vital, 1-0 win over AS Monaco earlier this month.

Despite having signed a contract with Lyon until the summer of 2027, reports suggest that Maitland-Niles might leave the club as early as January.

He is listed alongside Skelly Alvero, Dejan Lovren, and Mama Baldé, all of whom Lyon are reportedly ready to sell in the upcoming transfer window, if a buyer can be found, as they look to bring in experienced players to help them with their unexpected relegation fight. Lyon are currently 15th, just two points above the relegation zone with 16 points from 17 games.

Joining Lyon on a four-year deal in August 2023, Maitland-Niles left Arsenal after spending the previous season on loan at Southampton, where he made 27 appearances before the team’s relegation.

Maitland-Niles’s departure from Arsenal was a result of the club’s decision not to extend his contract.

During his time in England, Maitland-Niles progressed through the ranks at Arsenal, eventually earning a place in the first team. His versatility and skill were significant factors in his rise within the club.

Upon joining Lyon, Maitland-Niles expressed his excitement and surprise at the opportunity, saying, “I am very happy to sign here. If someone had told me at the age of six that I would one day be at Olympique Lyonnais, I could never have imagined it! I absolutely had to seize this opportunity. My favourite position? Midfield. I hope to establish myself in this position, but I am ready to work anywhere to help the team.”

The potential departure of Maitland-Niles from Lyon raises questions about his future career trajectory and the decisions that led to his current situation.

His time at Arsenal, known for nurturing talent, and his subsequent move to Lyon were seen as pivotal moments in his career.

Now, as Lyon appears open to selling him, Maitland-Niles faces a crucial period in defining his path in the world of football.

At 26, he is no longer considered a youngster and should be at the peak of his career.

Will he heed this latest wake-up call?