Strategic objectives in the Europa League League Phase
Olympiakos enters the upcoming fixture with significant momentum, having secured three wins from three matches in the competition so far. The club is currently targeting a top-eight finish in the League Phase, a position that would grant them direct qualification to the Round of 16. To achieve this, the team is focused on securing a vital away victory against Rennes during the fourth matchday of the tournament.
The primary goal for the Piraeus-based club is to capitalize on their perfect record. By aiming for a win in France, Olympiakos hopes to solidify their standing and move closer to an absolute dominance of their group. The pressure is on to translate domestic and early European success into consistent performances on the road against high-caliber French opposition.
Squad selection and notable absences
Manager Imanol Alguacil has named a 23-man traveling squad for the trip to France, though several key players remain unavailable. The team will be without Sipioni, Marius, Popovic, and Roca, all of whom were excluded from the European roster. Additionally, the squad is missing the injured Ayoub El Kaabi, which leaves a notable gap in the attacking options for the upcoming match.
Despite these absences, Alguacil has shown confidence in younger talent by including Paschalis Tufakis in the traveling party. This decision highlights a willingness to integrate youth into the high-stakes environment of European competition. The final list of players traveling to France includes:
- Ortega
- Stournaras
- Georgakopoulos
- Saliakas
- Smailovic
- Pirola
- Carmo
- Pedersen
- Retsos
- Bruno
- Tinnerián
- Fortounis
- Sa
- Martins
- Puerta
- Bailey
- Freuler
- Çikinio
- Ese
- Tufakis
- Gonzales
- Jaremchuk
- Zota Silva
Pre-match preparations and media engagements
Preparation for the Rennes encounter is moving into its final stages with a structured schedule of media and training activities. On November 3, Imanol Alguacil is scheduled to lead a press conference alongside Remo Freuler to discuss tactical approaches and team fitness. These briefings are essential for managing expectations ahead of the 17:30 kickoff on Wednesday.
Following the media commitments, the team will conduct its final training session at the Roazhon Park stadium. This evening session is designed to acclimatize the players to the pitch conditions and finalize tactical drills before the decisive Europa League clash. The combination of media transparency and on-field preparation marks the final countdown to the match.
FAQ
Who is included in the Olympiakos squad for Rennes?
The squad consists of 23 players selected by Imanol Alguacil. Key names include Fortounis, Sa, Bailey, and Freuler, along with the inclusion of young talent Paschalis Tufakis. The roster covers all positions needed for the away match in France against Rennes.
Why are some players missing from the squad?
Several players are unavailable for this match due to specific roster restrictions or injuries. Sipioni, Marius, Popovic, and Roca are not on the European list, while Ayoub El Kaabi is sidelined due to injury. These absences force Alguacil to rely on the remaining 23 players.
What is Olympiakos' goal in the Europa League?
Olympiakos aims to secure a top-eight position in the League Phase to earn direct qualification to the Round of 16. Having won their first three matches, the club is seeking an away win against Rennes to maintain their perfect record and strengthen their standing.
Looking ahead to the European campaign
The upcoming match against Rennes represents a pivotal moment in Olympiakos' 2026 Europa League campaign. With a perfect record of three wins from three, the club is well-positioned to chase a top-eight finish and direct progression to the knockout stages. While the absence of key players like El Kaabi and certain roster-restricted individuals poses a challenge, the inclusion of youth and the tactical leadership of Imanol Alguacil provide a foundation for success. The outcome in France will likely dictate the trajectory of their pursuit for European dominance this season.
