Olympic Lyonnais Sasp v Bernard and another

This case illustrates what impact EU law may have on repayment clauses or, potentially, restrictive covenants. These will only be upheld if there is a legitimate aim, and the clause is justified and proportionate in its impact.Under French law, football players are expected to complete their first professional year with the club that trained them if requested to do so. Failing to do so could result in footballers having to pay damages for breaching their contractual obligations. On completing his training with Olympic Lyonnais, Bernard signed a professional agreement with Newcastle United FC, and Olympic Lyonnais sued him for damages.