The Olympique Lyonnais suffered from the absence of Nemanja Matic

The Serbian midfielder of Olympique Lyonnais (OL) missed the club during the derby against Saint-Étienne and the defeat in the Europa League against Manchester United. His hip injury is official, but tensions between the player and the club are also mentioned.

The absence of Matic was particularly felt with poor performances by Paul Akouokou and Jordan Veretout. The Serb is a centrepiece of the Lyon midfielder, and his return is expected for the next championship matches.

Promising end of season for OL

Despite their elimination in the Europa League, Paulo Fonseca players remain in the race for the Champions League in the championship. A qualification for the C1 would reinforce the club’s sporting ambitions and financial future.

If OL regained their cruising rhythm after their defeat against Saint-Étienne, a good collective dynamic could have an impact on the individual awards awarded at the UNFP trophy ceremony on May 11. Lucas Perrin is a favorite for the Best Caretaker Trophy, while Rayan Cherki should play the lead roles for the Best Caretaker title.

The OL players running for UNFP Awards

With a first place in the championship, the players of Joe Montemurro could repeat last year’s performance, where five players made the eleven of the year. Melchie Dumornay could apply for the best player title with 15 goals and 6 assists.

Christiane Endler is favourite for the title of goaltender of the year in Arkema First League. She will be opposed to Mary Earps of PSG and Chiamaka Nnadozie of Paris FC at a ceremony organized by the Women’s Professional Football League on Monday, April 28.