AFCON 2025
Ruben Amorim will look to salvage his debut Manchester United season on Thursday night, traveling to Lyon for the Europa League quarter-final first-leg tie.
The Portuguese manager’s time in Manchester hasn’t gone entirely to plan, but the Europa League presents an opportunity to end the campaign on a high.
Following a dull 0-0 draw in the Manchester derby and a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, this competition has added importance for Amorim, as the Red Devils focus on securing Champions League qualification for next season.
Lyon are no pushovers, and here are 3 reasons we believe they can knock the Red Devils out.
Strong domestic form
Lyon are on a strong domestic run, having won 6 of their last 7 games, including a crucial 2-1 win at home to Lille at the weekend. This confidence boost will carry over to their Europa League quarter-final against United.
With a potent attack featuring pacey players like Rayan Cherki and Georges Mikautadze, and an experienced forward in ex-Asenal man Alexander Lacazette, Lyon will be hard to contain.
United’s Defensive Woes
United’s injury-hit defense will be put to the test against an exciting, expansive attack. Given Lyon’s impressive form, it’s hard to see Amorim’s men keeping a clean sheet here.
Lyon have been solid at the back in the Europa League so far, conceding no more than two goals per match, and the likes of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee will not strike fear into the French side’s backline.
Lyon’s goalscoring form
Lyon have been scoring goals for fun, with 19 goals in their last seven matches. They’ve won six of those games, and their form at home has been particularly impressive. Alexandre Lacazette and Rayan Cherki were on the scoresheet against Lille on Saturday, as they came from behind to win.
Cherki, in particular, has been in blistering form with 9 goals and 18 assists across all competitions this season. United will need to be on top of their game to keep out the in-form French forward.
