French club Lyon faces a challenging European fixture today, grappling with a severe injury crisis that forces coach Paulo Fonseca to field a significantly weakened squad and rely on youth.
The team is set to play Maccabi Tel Aviv in Serbia, but a slew of absences has prompted the French side to rethink its strategy. Lyon enters the match on a five-game winless streak, placing additional pressure on Fonseca.
“Despite the unfavorable context we have to take into account, we also did good things,” Fonseca stated. “We need to work and find solutions. Despite everything, the team is confident, mentally strong and motivated.”
Fonseca has called up several young players to fill the gaps. These include 16-year-old forward Yassine Hamdani, and Portuguese talents Afonso Moreira (20), Mathys de Carvalho (20), and Tiago Gonçalves (18).
Tiago Gonçalves, at 18, could potentially make his first-team debut in today’s match.
Elsewhere in European competitions, Lille aims to reverse a two-match losing streak in the Europa League. They will host Dinamo Zagreb, with Félix Correia available for selection.
Panathinaikos will be without Renato Sanches and Miguel Tavares due to injuries for their game against Sturm Graz in Athens.
Roma is scheduled to play host to Midtjylland, who currently lead their group with a perfect record of four wins in four matches.
“They are a good team that plays attractively and offensively,” commented Gian Piero Gasperini regarding Midtjylland. “Being at the top is surprising, but it’s deserved given the way they have played.”
Fenerbahçe, featuring former Benfica players Nélson Semedo, Ederson, and Aktürkoglu, is set to face Ferencvaros. The Hungarian club has performed above expectations in its European campaign.
Fenerbahçe boasts an impressive ten-game unbeaten run, comprising eight victories and two draws. This match presents an opportunity for them to climb higher in the standings.
Robbie Keane, coach of the Hungarian club, praised a different manager. “Replacing José Mourinho is not an easy task, but he is doing a fantastic job,” Keane said, referring to Domenico Tedesco.