Lyon vs Manchester United: Europa League Quarter-Final First Leg Preview

Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM BST (9:00 PM CET)
Venue: Groupama Stadium, Lyon

The Europa League quarter-finals bring a thrilling clash as Manchester United travel to France to take on Lyon in what promises to be a captivating first-leg showdown at the Groupama Stadium. With a spot in the semi-finals — and potentially the Champions League — on the line, both teams have everything to play for.

Match Outlook

Manchester United remain unbeaten in this season’s Europa League campaign, but recent inconsistencies in their domestic performances raise questions about their momentum heading into this crucial tie. Lyon, on the other hand, have been flying high with strong domestic form and an attacking setup that has impressed throughout the tournament.

GG Prediction: Lyon 2-1 Manchester United

According to GG Prediction, Lyon’s home advantage, coupled with Manchester United’s ongoing defensive injury concerns, may just tip the balance in the French side’s favor. Expect a tightly contested match, but Lyon could edge ahead with a narrow 2-1 victory in the first leg.

For more expert predictions and in-depth football analysis, visit www.ggprediction.com.

Players to Watch

Lyon

• Rayan Cherki: The creative spark for Lyon, Cherki’s dribbling and vision make him the heartbeat of their attack.

• Alexandre Lacazette: A proven finisher and experienced leader, Lacazette remains a constant threat in front of goal.

• Corentin Tolisso: A dynamic midfielder who’s rediscovered his scoring touch and brings both energy and intelligence to Lyon’s engine room.

Manchester United

• Bruno Fernandes: United’s talisman and captain, Fernandes will be instrumental in driving the attack and unlocking Lyon’s defense.

• Joshua Zirkzee: The young forward is showing real promise and could play a key role in United’s frontline.

• Harry Maguire: With injuries to key defenders, Maguire’s experience and leadership at the back will be vital.

Likely Starting Lineups

Lyon (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Anthony Lopes
Defenders: Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Duje Ćaleta-Car, Sinaly Diomandé, Nicolás Tagliafico
Midfielders: Nemanja Matić, Maxence Caqueret
Attacking Midfielders: Rayan Cherki, Corentin Tolisso, Thiago Almada
Forward: Alexandre Lacazette

Manchester United (3-4-2-1):
Goalkeeper: André Onana
Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro
Midfielders: Diogo Dalot, Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro, Patrick Dorgu
Attacking Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho
Forward: Joshua Zirkzee

Tactical Analysis

Lyon’s Strengths:

• Strong Home Form: The French side has turned the Groupama Stadium into a fortress with an impressive recent record.

• Attacking Depth: Goals have flowed freely in their Europa League campaign, with multiple threats across the frontline.

• Creative Midfield: Cherki and Tolisso have the ability to unlock even the tightest defenses.

Manchester United’s Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency: Recent Premier League results show a lack of rhythm and cohesion.

• Defensive Injuries: A reshuffled backline could struggle to deal with Lyon’s dynamic attackers.

• Reliance on Fernandes: Without him dictating play, United often look short of ideas.

Key Battles to Watch

• Cherki vs. United’s Defense: Can the young French star exploit United’s vulnerable backline?

• Lacazette vs. Maguire: A head-to-head duel between two experienced players who know how to battle.

• Bruno Fernandes vs. Lyon’s Midfield: The captain will need space and support to influence the game — Lyon won’t make it easy.

Final Thoughts

This first-leg clash sets the stage for a dramatic two-legged tie. While Manchester United have the talent to trouble Lyon, their defensive instability and Lyon’s solid home form make the French side slight favorites.

Our GG Prediction: Lyon 2-1 Manchester United. For all your latest football previews, betting tips, and match predictions, head over to www.ggprediction.com.