**L

Olympique Lyonnais prepares to face Arsenal in the semifinals of the Champions League, but the club’s dynamics are not limited to the field. As the team prepares for the Emirates Stadium, several players from Lyon are discovering the joys of paternity, adding a touch of happiness to the preparation of this crucial encounter.

A few days ago, the midfielder Tanner Tessmann made the express trip from the United States to attend the birth of his first child, while Lucas Perriva, the goaltender, flew to Brazil to be present at the birth of his wife. These events naturally have consequences on the team’s schedule, with Perriva missing the derby against Saint-Étienne this Sunday.

Along with these new families, OL is preparing to celebrate a symbolic event: the 500th game of his captain, Wendie Renard. Initially planned against the Paris FC, this event was delayed due to Renard’s international truce and injury. Despite the defender’s package for the match against Paris FC, she travelled with the team to London, leaving uncertainty about her presence against Arsenal.

OL coach Joe Montero assured that Renard’s participation in the semifinal would be decided on Saturday morning. The absence of the captain, as well as the return of Ada Hegerberg and Melchie Dumornay, suggest a complete staff for this meeting.

The atmosphere within the club is therefore both intense and joyful, with the expectation of this semi-final Champions League mixed with the new family responsibilities. Therefore, OL prepares to face Arsenal with a growing family group, promising a unique atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium.