LYON Relying on youth
Third in Ligue 1 last term and one of the best clubs in Europe for giving a chance to young talent, Lyon are about to begin their 22nd consecutive season in continental action.
Their straighttalking, controversial president Jean-Michel Aulas has set his sights on at least a place in the knockout phase, although that will be anything but easy as Lyon have not gone as far in the Champions League since 2012.
They do have their issues, however. Much criticised last term by fans and the media for alleged technical-area passivity and a lack of authority, coach Bruno Genesio is very much in the last-chance saloon and there was an outcry this summer when two of their most promising youngsters were allowed to leave, with teen sensation winger Willem Geubbels joining Monaco and forward Myziane Maolida heading for Nice.
In which part of the field are Lyon likely to be strongest?
Without question OL’s strength lies in their midfield, where their “baby triumvirate” of 20-year-old Houssem Aouar, and 21-year-olds Lucas Tousart and Tanguy Ndombele are growing up much faster than anyone could have expected. The trio have the skills and maturity – not to mention the potential – and compliment one another very well indeed.
Which facet of their game must OL look to improve?
While they can be devastating on the counter-attack Lyon are not remotely as comfortable when having to take the initiative themselves. As a collective unit they still have some way to go, and they tend to rely on bursts of individualism from Nabil Fekir and front-runners Memphis Depay and Bertrand Traore.
Describe the OL Class of 18-19 in three words?
Fearless, enthusiastic, youthful. The fact they have six French under-21 internationals in their ranks says it all.