Thomas Lemar Set to Reinvent Himself at Girona on Season-Long Loan

Thomas Lemar has joined Girona on loan from Atlético Madrid until June 2026, with Girona covering 50% of the midfielder’s salary according to reports.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Girona and Atlético Madrid finalized a loan agreement for Lemar that will keep the French international at Montilivi until June 2026. Lemar, aged 29, struggled for playing time at Atlético last season due to injuries, as he made just 13 appearances across all competitions as noted in earlier reports. He suffered a severe Achilles injury in September 2023, which caused him to miss nearly the entire 2023/24 season. Although he returned late last term, he failed to regain a regular spot in Diego Simeone’s plans. This move gives Lemar a chance to relaunch his career as Girona looks to rebuild their squad.

HOW THIS SHAPES GIRONA AND ATLÉTICO’S SEASONS

The transfer represents a strategic reinforcement for Girona as they aim to improve upon a disappointing 16-place finish in LaLiga last season, two years after finishing third and only one point safe from relegation. Lemar’s experience in both LaLiga and European competitions, including his involvement in Atlético’s 2021 title-winning squad and France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, brings much-needed pedigree to Girona. His arrival helps fill the creative void left by Artem Dovbyk, who departed for Roma last summer and the team hasn’t been able to find a replacement. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid has allowed Lemar to leave as part of their plan to reduce the wage bill, continuing their summer strategy to shed high earners following De Paul’s and Álvaro Morata’s exits.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR LEMAR AND GIRONA?

Lemar is expected to compete for a starting spot straight away under manager Míchel. Girona’s first LaLiga fixture is against Rayo Vallecano, who finished in the last of the European spots last season. With a number of important departures over the summer, Girona will be hoping Lemar can rediscover his form and help close the gap to the teams above them. Atlético, with Lemar off their wage bill, continues reshaping their squad as they prepare to face their first match of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign on August 9.