Sparta Prague to face Olympique Lyonnais without their skipper
Following Lukas Haraslin’s departure to Saudi Arabia, Sparta Prague prepares for their crucial Champions League return against Olympique Lyonnais with a reshaped squad.
After five seasons wearing the Sparta Prague jersey, captain Lukas Haraslin has completed his transfer to Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia, just days after the club’s Champions League victory over Olympique Lyonnais. The move, reportedly worth around €5 million, marks another significant loss for the Czech side following Jan Kuchta’s transfer to Legia Warsaw. Haraslin’s exit leaves a void in the team’s leadership and defensive structure.
Head coach Brian Priske faces the challenge of maintaining momentum after Sparta’s 2-1 triumph in the first leg. Despite a recent league setback against Mladá Boleslav, Priske’s squad remains confident in their ability to secure progression to the next round. The Danish tactician confirmed that the same starting eleven from the first leg will likely feature at Groupama Stadium, with Josimar Alcocer stepping up to fill Haraslin’s role.
Key implications for the return fixture
Priske emphasized the importance of consistency, stating: “We have a real opportunity to qualify if we replicate our first-leg performance. Lyon came to face a team just starting their season – that’s never easy. They haven’t played since then, which gives us a slight edge. I hope we can be consistent, particularly in midfield control.”
Squad reshuffle and tactical adjustments
The departure of Haraslin, a mainstay in defense, has forced Priske to adapt his formation. Alcocer, who impressed during the first leg, is expected to provide defensive stability while maintaining the team’s attacking approach. Sparta’s recent league performance, with seven new players integrated into the squad, suggests a team in transition but one that remains competitive in European competition.
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