Lyon, Marseille and Rennes Start Europa League on Different Notes
Lyon, Marseille, and Rennes Kick Off Europa League Campaigns
This week, Lyon, Marseille, and Rennes each begin their journeys in the Europa League, but their paths could not look more different. Lyon will host Anderlecht on Wednesday at 21:00, while Marseille travel to face Besiktas on Thursday at 21:00. Meanwhile, Rennes take on Sturm Graz.
Marseille’s Rocky Start and Squad Changes
According to Le Progres, optimism from OM's impressive 4-0 win over Strasbourg has faded as they prepare for a challenging trip to Türkiye. A summer overhaul aimed at raising cash has left their squad noticeably thinner.
Their form reflects this turmoil, with three Ligue 1 defeats in a row, including a narrow 3-2 loss against Paris FC at the Vélodrome. The upcoming schedule is unforgiving: just days after visiting Besiktas, they face Paris SG. Then the calendar throws tough matches against Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiakos, and Celtic Glasgow.
Lyon’s Challenge After Missing Champions League
Lyon have stumbled differently. They failed to progress past Fenerbahçe in the Champions League playoffs, dropping into the Europa League instead. This shift brings less financial reward and more scrutiny from DNCG regulators. Their match against Anderlecht will test if they've moved past that setback and whether they can contend here.
In Ligue 1, Lyon sit fifth but still seem unsettled, shown by their recent uninspiring 0-0 draw with Paris FC.
Rennes Show Promise as Ligue 1 Leaders
On the other hand, Rennes appear ready for European competition. They share the top spot in Ligue 1 after three wins and a draw. Over two years since their round-of-16 exit against AC Milan in February 2024, and still chasing a first European quarter-final, they must start strong against Sturm Graz.
Europa League Fixtures This Week
- Lyon vs Anderlecht: Wednesday, 21:00
- Marseille at Besiktas: Thursday, 21:00
- Rennes vs Sturm Graz: Date and time unspecified
Current Ligue 1 Standings Snapshot
- Rennes: Co-leaders with three wins and one draw
- Lyon: Fifth place, struggling for form
- Marseille: Suffering three consecutive defeats
Source: Le Progres
