After five seasons at Sparta Prague, captain Lukas Haraslin departed for Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia, receiving around €5 million for the move. His exit follows that of Jan Kuchta, who joined Legia Warsaw in Poland. With Haraslin no longer available, coach Brian Priske must adapt his plans ahead of the Groupama Stadium clash.

«We have a real opportunity to qualify if we replicate our first-leg performance, Priske commented. Lyon arrived to play their first competitive match of the season on our turf, which is never easy. They haven’t played since then, which is a slight advantage for us. I hope we remain consistent, especially in midfield.»

Sparta Prague secured a 2-1 victory over Lyon in the first leg, with Haraslin making a late appearance. With his replacement, Josimar Alcocer, impressing in the first leg, Priske is expected to field the same starting lineup for the return.