 He was known by the club's followers for his prowess in the ranks of the Olympique Lyonnais' junior "amateur" team, playing in the CFA 2.In April 2006, it was announced by Olympique Lyonnais' president Jean-Michel Aulas that he would sign a one-year professional contract with the club alongside fellow young hope and France U-18 international Mourad Benhamida.He had scored 16 goals in 21 appearances at the attack for his side captained by Benhamida and helped them win the second division "Amateur" Championship to get promoted in the CFA.