Duranville's downward spiral after a million investment by Borussia Dortmund

When Borussia Dortmund invested just under ten million euros in the then 16‑year‑old Julien Duranville in January 2023, the money raised high hopes. Instead, there followed persistent injuries, limited playing time at Basel and Lyon, and a clear downward trend that seems to justify BVB‑decision to sell the player.

Injuries and lack of confidence at Dortmund

The Belgian was not used regularly after the purchase by Niko Kovač; physical problems hampered his development. Despite occasional fitness periods, Duranville never earned the full trust of the coach, which led him into a dead end.

Loan to Basel and disappointing record

In the winter 2026, BVB loaned the winger to FC Basel to give him match practice. In the Swiss Super League, Duranville scored only two goals in 17 appearances and received no recommendation for a stay.

Transfer to Lyon and further setbacks

In July, the sale to Olympique Lyon was announced, with the French paying a transfer fee of five million euros, which could rise to a maximum of 8.5 million euros through bonuses. At Lyon Duranville featured in only two of ten league matches, accumulated 68 minutes and remained plagued by physical problems; his last appearance was already a month ago.

While Duranville is absent, Lyon are doing well: after five league games they sit in second place with eleven points and a goal difference of ten to two. Moreover, the team won the first Europa‑League‑group stage 2 : 1 against RSC Anderlecht, Duranville's former club, with him not featuring.

At just 20 years old, Duranville stands at a possible turning point in his career. Observers wonder whether he can still find his footing or if physical deficiencies will permanently affect his future.

In hindsight, BVB's decision to offload the player in the summer appears understandable, given the modest transfer loss and the ongoing problems.