Marseille and Lyon to face Leverkusen in Europa League, Rennes take on Juventus

French clubs Marseille and Lyon skirted an early clash with Italian giants Juventus during last week’s Europa League draw, yet Ligue 1 rivals Rennes secured a demanding campaign arriving in Turin. Olympique Lyonnais, who missed out on the Champions League following a playoff loss to Fenerbahçe, will host Crystal Palace—led by former manager Pierre Sage—and welcome Bayer Leverkusen. Lyon’s departure schedule includes visits to Real Sociedad, Anderlecht, Hoffenheim, and Jagiellonia. Conversely, Marseille faces Olympiacos, Dinamo Zagreb, Sparta Prague, Omonia Nicosia, Sturm Graz, OFI Crete, and NEC Nijmegen away, and will play at home against Leverkusen, Celtic, Sturm, and Besiktas.

Rennes, returning to European competition after a two-year lull, faced a tough test against Juventus Turin and have additional fixtures against Olympiacos, Dinamo Zagreb, Sparta Prague, Omonia Nicosia, Sturm Graz, OFI Crete, and NEC Nijmegen. The Europa League first round opens on September 16–17, with the championship final set for 26 May 2027 in Frankfurt. Reflecting on past successes, last season Aston Villa claimed their European triumph by defeating Freiburg, bringing a Birmingham title back to the city after a 44-year drought. Similarly, English newcomer Bournemouth will debut in continental play after a sixth-place Premier League finish, preparing to host seven-time champions Milan on the home soil. Under the guidance of French coach Pierre Sage, Crystal Palace occupies the third seed and will host Real Sociedad, Sparta Prague, and Hoffenheim at home, before touring Lyon, Salzburg, Jagiellonia, and Besiktas.

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