Nigerian striker Gift Orban has been omitted from Olympique Lyon’s squad for their upcoming Europa League match against Qarabag in Baku. This decision comes amidst a period of poor form for the forward, who has struggled to make a significant impact since his transfer to the club.
Orban has scored only five goals in 21 appearances for Lyon across all competitions. His lackluster performances, particularly in the Europa League, have led to limited playing time.
Joining Orban on the sidelines is Ivorian forward Wilfried Zaha, who has also fallen out of favor with manager Pierre Sage. Zaha, on loan from Galatasaray, has made only five appearances for Lyon this season.
In a surprising move, 17-year-old Enzo Molebe has been called up to the senior squad.
Lyon’s recent form in the Europa League has been mixed. After promising victories over Rangers and Olympiacos, they suffered a home defeat to Besiktas and drew with Hoffenheim. The club currently sits ninth in the new Europa League format.
Off the field, Lyon faces significant challenges. The club has been provisionally relegated from Ligue 1, despite being fifth in the league, and has also been handed a transfer ban by the DNGC. The Nigerian is one of the players expected to leave the club in January.
