Champions League: Matteo Guendouzi's suspension reduced

In Lyon's stadium on August 26, 2026, Olympique Lyonnais saw its qualification hopes fade as the decisive second leg against Fenerbahçe ended in defeat. During the match, Matteo Guendouzi confronted some Lyon supporters, sparking controversy.

Play‑off against Fenerbahçe

The tie took place at the end of August, with a decisive second‑leg play‑off that could have given Lyon a place in the group stage of the Champions League. The defeat to Fenerbahçe sealed the French club's exit from the draw.

Sanction and appeal

UEFA opened a case against the player, describing him as a French international, and imposed a four‑match suspension, with two of them suspended, as well as a €50,000 fine. The decision was handed down shortly after the loss.

A month later, Matteo Guendouzi's club lodged an appeal with UEFA's Arbitration Tribunal. The arguments of Turkish club Fenerbahçe were upheld, and the sanction was reduced to three matches, with two suspended, subject to a one‑year probation period. Fenerbahçe confirmed the decision in a statement posted on its social media channels.

Guendouzi, who was unable to play in the match against Roma on September 10, will now be available for the game against Aston Villa scheduled for October 14, 2026, once the international window has closed and the second matchday of the Champions League group stage has arrived.

Olympique Lyonnais' failure to qualify and the reduction of the sanction illustrate the impact of disciplinary decisions on a club's European ambitions. Guendouzi's return gives Lyon an additional option to strengthen its squad in the group stage.