London, England – As the Europa League quarter-finals approach this week, teams are gearing up for critical matches. Lyon will host Manchester United on Thursday, April 10, 2025, aiming to secure a victory that can elevate their season after consistent performances in Ligue 1.
Lyon bounced back from previous challenges by defeating Lille 2-1 over the weekend, marking their sixth win in seven matches. Under the guidance of manager Paulo Fonseca, who has been banned from domestic duties but is eligible in UEFA competitions, Lyon now sits fifth in the French league, closing in on second-placed Marseille.
“I’m glad to bring attacking football back to Lyon,” Fonseca said. But tragedy strikes as the team will miss young wingers Ernest Nuamah and Malick Fofana for the upcoming match. However, Rayan Cherki and Thiago Almada are poised to take the attack alongside Corentin Tolisso and striker Georges Mikautadze. They will seek to exploit space against a United side known for their reliance on wing play.
Manchester United, currently sitting 13th in the Premier League with a negative goal difference, hopes to revitalize their season by winning the Europa League. “We need this to get back into the Champions League,” said a source from inside United. Their last encounter with Lyon had ended successfully for United, who eventually won the competition.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur, eager to shake off a troubled domestic season, welcomes Eintracht Frankfurt to North London. After a tough period, Spurs ended a three-game winless streak by beating AZ Alkmaar. Manager Ange Postecoglou aims to deliver silverware but will have to do so without Dejan Kulusevski, Kevin Danso, and Radu Dragusin.
Eintracht, currently third in the Bundesliga, faces their own injury woes but must not be underestimated. Despite their shaky away form, they boast impressive wins at home against other strong teams. “Every match is a final now,” noted a Frankfurt player. This clash is crucial for Spurs, who hope to extend their shot at silverware.
In Scotland, Rangers take on Athletic Bilbao under the guidance of Barry Ferguson. Despite a recent upset against a lower-ranked team, Rangers have had some remarkable victories including against Fenerbahce and Celtic. However, disciplinary issues mean they will be without Mohamed Diomande and John Souttar. The home advantage could be pivotal against an Athletic side that has struggled recently.
“We need to bring our A-game,” stated a member of the Rangers squad. Athletic Bilbao arrives on the back foot, with their last two European matches resulting in losses, and injuries threatening their defensive line.
In Norway, Bodø/Glimt will face Lazio, another anticipated clash on April 10. The Norwegian side has found success at home, needing the advantage against the visitors. Coach Kjetil Knutsen has enjoyed a relatively injury-free squad leading into this match.
Lazio returns to action with the boost of having Samuel Gigot back, while their squad faces a few injuries and suspensions. Despite being formidable in the Europa League this season, they will need to bring their best against Bodø/Glimt.
All eyes will be on these matches as teams battle for one of the coveted spots in the next round of the Europa League. As the competition heats up, predictions stand at varied odds across the board for both the established clubs and the dark horses.
