Football Season Guide

Lyon finished 4th last season in a campaign that was more in line with the club’s aims, and was achieved despite financially pressures on the first team. It was not, however, a season without its difficulties. OL finished the season in poor form, with their defence performing alarmingly, leaving questions as to how well armed they are for the new campaign. Paulo Fonseca remains in charge of OL having done excellent work over his stint. So far, the bulk of his squad has been retained, too. Afonso Moreira was sold to Leverkusen in a big-money deal that saw Lyon lose a player of terrific potential, though not necessarily a difference maker right now. In return, they have signed several cheaper options across their squad, notably exciting Nice prospect Kail Boudache and striker Louis Openda, who was been recruited to ease their scoring worries – from Ligue 1’s top 8 last season, OL ranked 7th for goals scored. OL have already started their campaign in a competitive sense, edging past Slavia Prague in the Champions League. After a dreadful performance away from home, they won impressively at home. Getting Ernest Nuamah and Malick Fofana back from long-term injury helped, while the new signings are still settling. Lyon’s biggest strength in recent times has been their manager. Fonesca is a shrewd operator and one of the best in Ligue 1. Otherwise, Corentin Tolisso’s performances as a creative force through the heart of the field has been the best thing about them lately, while this is a team that has a seemingly endless stream of young players capable of making the step to the first team with comparative ease – vital in these frugal times. Defence is likely to be an issue for Lyon again this season – at least in comparative terms. They have barely upgraded their backline and were very leaky last season. OL are set to lean heavily on veterans such as Niakhate, Mata and Tagliafico, all of whom have a history of selection issues.