Lyon’s Europa League route set: Anderlecht opener and Leverkusen finale

Lyon already know their schedule in the Europa League league phase after being dropped into the competition following their failure in the Champions League play-offs. L'Équipe reports that the UEFA confirmed the full fixture list on Saturday evening, with a tough run-up and a prestige finish.

Opening game and early clash

Under Paulo Fonseca, Lyon kick off their European campaign with a trip to Anderlecht on 16 September. Soon after, a major early test lands at the Groupama Stadium as Crystal Palace come to town from the second matchday.

Tough away stretch

The next stretch keeps the pressure on: Lyon will play Hoffenheim away on 22 October, then travel to Real Sociedad on 5 November. Last season, the club finished first in the league phase, which sets the bar for what they’ll aim to repeat.

Leverkusen to close at home

The team will try to round things off strongly in front of their fans with Bayer Leverkusen on 28 January, on the eighth matchday. For a side managing both league and Europe, the timetable is a clear signal that the first half won’t be easy—and that the home finale could be crucial for their position.