Olympique Lyonnais prepares to host FC Metz on Saturday 23 August at the Groupama Stadium, as part of the first day of the Ligue 1 season. This meeting marks the beginning of a new era for OL, which will evolve on a new lawn. After an encouraging victory over Lens (0-1), the team seeks to confirm its form by facing a Metz team currently 15th in the championship. The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) appointed referee Éric Wattelliers for this match, a familiar name for the Lyon fans, who had already supervised three OL matches the previous season, notably against Brest, Paris-Saint-Germain and Lille. He will be assisted by Mikael Berchebruet and Ludovic Reyes, with Soulaimane Chamelser as fourth referee, and Hamid Guenaouie and Ludovic Rémy at the VAR.

OL’s victory over Lens has been a source of congratulations to Jorge Maciel, who particularly praised the exceptional performance of goaltender Rémy Descamps. Descamps made five crucial stops, contributing directly to the victory of his team. Maciel emphasized the careful preparation of the guardian and his exemplary behaviour, especially after speculation about his future. He also mentioned the possibility of changes in team composition for the match against Metz, suggesting that other players might have the opportunity to start.

Rémy Descamps’ performance is seen as a strong message to the entire team, demonstrating its commitment and ability to lead by example. This victory and the goaltender’s performance are positive elements for OL as he starts this new Ligue 1 season. The team hopes to build on this momentum and confirm its ambitions for the coming season, building on the new lawn and the determination of its players.