Manchester United Faces Lyon in Tense Europa League Quarter-Final

LYON, France — Manchester United heads to France for the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final against Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday, April 10, 2025. This match represents a crucial moment for United, who are currently struggling in the Premier League and need victory in this competition to secure European football for next season.

Manager Ruben Amorim’s team, sitting in 13th place in the league, sees their Europa League campaign as a last chance for silverware this season. Lyon, meanwhile, currently sits fifth in Ligue 1 and looks to maintain momentum following an impressive 4-0 win against FCSB in the last round.

Lyon’s lineup for Thursday includes goalkeeper Alphonse Perri and a strong defensive setup featuring Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Nicolas Tagliafico. In midfield, Corentin Tolisso will aim to control the game alongside Jordan Veretout and Mohamed Akouokou. Up front, Rayan Cherki and Georges Mikautadze will look to exploit the United defense.

Manchester United’s starting XI features Andre Onana in goal, with Harry Maguire and Nathan Yoro anchoring the defense. Key midfielders Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are expected to lead United’s assault, supported by Alejandro Garnacho and forward Rasmus Hojlund.

Despite a nine-month ban that keeps him away from the touchline in French football, Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca will be allowed to lead his team against United, marking his return to coaching after being sidelined due to a confrontation with a referee. In a statement, Fonseca expressed confidence in his team’s preparations, saying, “We prepared for this match as if we were going to face the best possible Manchester United.”

Lyon’s recent form has sparked optimism, particularly as they are aiming for a top position in Ligue 1. Fonseca’s strategy will focus on a potent counterattack, utilizing the speed and creativity of his attacking players.

On the other hand, United’s goalkeeper Onana found himself in the spotlight after a controversial remark claiming his side was “way better” than their French counterparts. This statement drew criticism from Lyon midfielder Nemanja Matic, who responded sharply, saying, “If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history, then you need to take care of what you are talking about.”

Amidst the buildup, Amorim highlighted the importance of the match, stating, “Winning a title, especially a European title, is massive for us. It could change the course of our season.” With injuries persisting in the squad, including notable absences for players like Luke Shaw and Amad Diallo, the pressure is on United to deliver a strong performance.

The quarter-final not only represents a chance for redemption for Manchester United but also a significant opportunity for Lyon to further assert their dominance in European competition. Historically, however, Lyon has never defeated United in four previous encounters.

As the teams prepare for kickoff at 3 p.m. ET (9 p.m. local), both squads are eager to seize an advantage heading into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.