Lyon predicted XI vs Anderlecht: Keito Nakamura to start for a revamped Olympique Lyonnais

Olympique Lyonnais head into their Group A opener in the Europa League with a line‑up that looks quite different from the one that qualified them for the competition. After a busy pre‑season, a handful of new faces have earned spots, while a couple of familiar names have slipped out due to injuries or tactical tweaks.

Most eyes are on the midfield, where Japanese talent Keito Nakamura finally gets his chance. The 23‑year‑old, who joined Lyon in the summer, is slotted in central midfield alongside veteran Maxence Caqueret. Nakamura’s technical ability and calm on the ball should help the Gones control the tempo against the Belgian side.

In goal, Barthélemy Gouale Gibbon makes the starting spot his own after a solid pre‑season showing. The French‑Cameroonian keeper has been praised for his command of the box and his composure under pressure.

On the flanks, the newly‑signed Brazilian winger Lucas Pavão takes the left‑wing, replacing an injured Rayan Cherki who is still nursing a hamstring strain. At right‑back, the experienced Malo Gomis partners veteran defender Leo Dumont, forming a back‑four that mixes youth with seasoned French internationals.

Up front, Lyon stick with the striking partnership of Alexandre Lyons and the ever‑reliable Moussa Dembélé. Both forwards have been in decent form in Ligue 1, and the coaching staff hopes they will translate that sharpness onto the continental stage.

Coach Peter Bosz, who took over just before the summer transfer window, has indicated that the changes are not merely about injuries – he wants a side that can press high, transition quickly, and keep possession against teams that favour a compact defensive shape.

Anderlecht, for their part, will likely field a more traditional Belgian line‑up, relying on the pace of Youssef Mbengue and the creativity of Kevin De Bruyne’s younger brother, Silas. The clash promises a battle of contrasting philosophies: Lyon’s proactive, possession‑based approach versus Anderlecht’s disciplined, counter‑attacking style.

All things considered, the predicted eleven gives Lyon a balanced blend of experience and fresh energy. If Nakamura can settle quickly and the defensive line stays organized, Lyon have a genuine chance to start their Europa League campaign with a win.