Lyon to begin Ligue 1 campaign against Rennes.

2024-09-15

As Rennes kick off their 2024-25 campaign against Lyon at Roazhon Park, both teams look to shake off last season's struggles, with new summer signings set to shine in an electrifying Ligue 1 opener.

Rennes

Rennes were unable to replicate their impressive fourth-place finish from the 2022–23 season, falling to a midtable position last term. Julien Stéphan assumed the managerial role partway through the season after Bruno Génésio's departure, with the team positioned in 13th place.

The Brittany-based club reinforced their squad during the summer transfer window, investing €50 million in new signings. Notable additions include Albert Grønbaek from Bodø/Glimt for €15 million, Glen Kamara from English side Leeds for €10 million, and Leo Østigård from Napoli for €7 million.

Rennes enjoyed a successful pre-season, securing victories over Angers (2-1), Real Sociedad (2-0), and Werder Bremen (1-0). They also drew with US Saint-Malo (3-3) and suffered a loss to Guingamp (3-0).

Les Rennais need to improve upon last season's form, having secured only three victories in their last 12 Ligue 1 games (3 wins, 3 draws, and 6 losses). However, there's optimism from their recent performances against Lyon, winning four of the last six league encounters (4 wins, 0 draws, and 2 losses). This is as many wins as in the previous 13 such meetings.

Arnaud Kalimuendo, who was the team's top scorer in Ligue 1 last season with 10 goals, is anticipated to lead the attack in a 4-2-3-1 formation when Rennes face Lyon.

Olympique Lyonnais

Unlike last season, Lyon is eager to start off on a more positive note after spending most of the previous campaign in 18th place. The club required three managers, with Laurent Blanc and Fabio Grosso being dismissed before Pierre Sage instigated the necessary improvements.

A strong late push ultimately led to Lyon qualifying for the Europa League. The busy summer transfer window saw them invest €134.29 million on eight players, including Georges Mikautadze, the joint-top scorer from Euro 2024, and Moussa Niakhaté from Nottingham Forest.

In 2024, no team has collected as many points as Lyon in Ligue 1. They are on a roll, having won their last eight Ligue 1 away games, and Sage aims to extend this unbeaten streak to nine by deploying a 4-3-3 formation with Mikautadze leading the attack.

However, key players Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolás Tagliafico are both suspended for this match, which might influence the team's dynamics.