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Lyon, Marseille, and Rennes Start Europa League on Different Notes

Lyon, Marseille, and Rennes kick off their Europa League journeys this week, each heading in a distinct direction. Lyon will host Anderlecht on Wednesday at 21:00. The following day, Marseille travel to face Beşiktaş at the same time, while Rennes take on Sturm Graz.

Marseille's Difficult Trip to Turkey

According to Le Progres, optimism from Marseille’s opening 4-0 victory over Strasbourg has faded ahead of their tough away game in Türkiye. A major summer overhaul driven by financial needs has thinned their squad. They have lost three consecutive Ligue 1 matches, including a 3-2 defeat to Paris FC at the Vélodrome. Their busy schedule also includes a visit from Paris SG just days after Beşiktaş, followed by matches against Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiakos, and Celtic Glasgow.

Lyon’s Europa League Path After Setback

Lyon face different issues. They failed to get past Fenerbahçe in the Champions League play-offs, dropping into the less lucrative Europa League instead. This represents a financial blow amid ongoing DNCG scrutiny. Against Anderlecht, Lyon need to show they have recovered from the disappointment and can compete strongly in this tournament. Domestically, they sit fifth and are still finding their rhythm after a goalless draw with Paris FC that lacked inspiration.

Rennes Look Ready to Impress

Meanwhile, Rennes appear to be in good form, sharing the top spot in Ligue 1 with three wins and one draw. Over two years since their round-of-16 exit to AC Milan in February 2024 and still yet to reach a European quarter-final, they must start strongly against Sturm Graz to build momentum.

Europa League Fixtures and Team Form

  • Lyon vs Anderlecht: Wednesday, 21:00
  • Marseille vs Beşiktaş: Thursday, 21:00
  • Rennes vs Sturm Graz: Date and time matching other fixtures

Ligue 1 Standings Snapshot

  • Rennes: Co-leaders with three wins and one draw
  • Lyon: Fifth place, searching for form
  • Marseille: Struggling after three straight losses

Upcoming Challenges for Marseille

  • Paris SG visit shortly after Beşiktaş match
  • Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiakos, and Celtic Glasgow await in the group stage

Source

Information based on reporting from Le Progres.

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