Thomas Lemar has officially completed his loan move from Atlético Madrid to Girona FC, with both Spanish clubs agreeing to split the French midfielder’s salary equally. The 29-year-old joined the Catalan side until June 2026, seeking regular playing time after struggling for opportunities at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the completion of the loan agreement with his announcement: “Thomas Lemar joins Girona on loan deal from Atlético Madrid with 50% salary covered.” Girona FC have secured a significant coup by agreeing to a loan deal for Thomas Lemar from Atletico Madrid, as confirmed by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The move sees Girona covering 50% of the 29-year-old Frenchman’s salary until June 2026, marking a strategic boost for the Catalan club.
Atlético de Madrid and Girona FC have reached an agreement for the loan of Thomas Lemar to the Catalan club for this season. The official confirmation from both clubs ended weeks of speculation about the midfielder’s future.
Salary Structure and Financial Details
Girona and Atlético will split Lemar’s €3.3 million gross salary down the middle in order to get him regular football, making the deal financially viable for the Catalan club. Thomas Lemar will join Girona on a simple loan agreement, with no option to buy. Girona will cover 50% of Lemar’s salary. The agreement is complete between Girona, Atlético de Madrid, and Lemar himself.
The 50-50 salary split arrangement demonstrates both clubs’ commitment to finding a solution that benefits all parties involved, allowing Lemar to continue his career while reducing Atlético’s wage burden.
Contract Duration and Terms
Thomas Lemar will play for Girona next season. Atlético Madrid has reached an agreement with the Catalan club for the loan of the French player until June 2026. The midfielder, who has a contract with Atlético until 2027, will seek the minutes he has not had in recent campaigns at Montilivi.
The loan extends until June 2026, providing Lemar with an extended opportunity to rebuild his career and regain match fitness through regular appearances in La Liga competition.
Atlético’s Decision to Release
His club no longer counts on him at all and is even ready to release him from his contract to allow him to relaunch himself, and to get rid of his salary. OL and AS Monaco have been interested in its services for a time, but the case never went further.
Atlético’s willingness to facilitate Lemar’s departure reflects their desire to reduce squad numbers and provide opportunities for other players while helping the Frenchman revive his career.
Previous Interest from French Clubs
Before finalizing his move to Girona, Lemar had attracted interest from several French clubs. Lyon and AS Monaco had shown genuine interest in bringing the former Monaco player back to Ligue 1, but negotiations never progressed to completion.
The French clubs’ interest validated Lemar’s continued market appeal despite his limited playing time at Atlético, but the financial constraints and competitive situations at those clubs prevented deals from materializing.
Chelsea completes the signing of Jorrel Hato from Ajax
Career Statistics at Atlético
The Frenchman made his official debut on Aug. 15, 2018 as we won the UEFA Super Cup against Real Madrid in Tallinn. Lemar has played a total of 186 official matches during his time in Madrid, accumulating valuable experience across domestic and European competitions.
His six-year tenure at Atlético included memorable moments, but his playing time decreased significantly in recent seasons as the club’s tactical approach evolved and new signings limited his opportunities.
Girona’s Strategic Acquisition
Girona are set to ignite their summer transfer window with a potential loan move for Atlético Madrid’s Thomas Lemar, as the Catalan club seeks to strengthen Míchel’s squad. The addition of Lemar represents a major coup for Girona as they prepare for another La Liga campaign.
The experienced midfielder’s technical ability and creative vision align perfectly with Girona’s attacking philosophy under manager Míchel, providing additional depth and quality to their midfield options.
Playing Time Motivation
Invited to change its air this summer, Thomas Lemar (29) has perfectly received the message from Atlético de Madrid. The midfielder’s primary motivation for the move centers on securing regular first-team football after years of limited opportunities.
At 29, Lemar recognizes the importance of consistent playing time for maintaining his international prospects and extending his career at the highest level.
Integration Plans
Girona’s coaching staff have outlined clear plans for Lemar’s integration into their tactical system, with his experience and versatility providing multiple positional options. His ability to operate across different midfield roles offers tactical flexibility for various match situations.
The Frenchman’s La Liga experience eliminates concerns about adaptation time, allowing him to contribute immediately to Girona’s objectives for the upcoming season.
Mutual Benefits
The loan arrangement satisfies all parties involved, with Atlético reducing their wage commitments while Lemar gains essential playing time. Girona benefits from acquiring a proven La Liga performer without the financial burden of his full salary.
This collaborative approach shows modern football’s pragmatic solutions to complex squad management situations, creating opportunities for player development while addressing club financial constraints.
With his loan move now complete, Thomas Lemar begins a fresh chapter at Girona, eager to rediscover his best form and contribute to the Catalan club’s continued growth in Spanish football.
