Nigerian striker Gift Orban will be hoping to make a bright start to life in the French Ligue 1 as he is expected to make his French topflight debut for Olympique Lyon against Rennes on Friday. 

Orban joined the struggling French side on a four-and-a-half-year deal during the January transfer window from Belgian Jupiler Pro League side KAA Gent for €12 million and a possible €8 in add-ons.

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The 21-year-old will be hoping to turn his season around after a slow start and help Lyon avoid relegation at the end of the season. Orban had been one of the hottest strikers in Europe in the summer and was on the wishlist of top clubs after scoring 20 goals in 22 games across all competitions for Gent.

Orban has featured in several trainings for Les Gones and would be hoping to get his feet wet when they take on Rennes. The club will also look to build on the French Cup win over Championnat National 2 side, Bergerac Périgord.

Speaking on the player, Lyon manager Pierre Sage said the arrival of the Nigerian has revitalized his side. “He brings joy and enthusiasm to the team, adding a fresh perspective that revitalizes the group.”