Luyindula and Juninho at Lyon

The New York Red Bulls announced today that they will host seven-time Ligue 1 winner, Olympique Lyonnais, in a friendly on Tuesday, July 16 at 8:00 PM at Red Bull Arena.

"We are proud to host Olympique Lyonnais at Red Bull Arena," said Red Bulls General Manager Jerome de Bontin. "Lyon has a storied history in France and has featured a number of top international players, including our own Juninho and Peguy Luyindula, while playing a distinct brand of soccer. They have been an example to many European clubs of how to build a solid soccer organization over many years, with a strong vision and goals that are reflected by their consistent success and seven-straight Lique 1 championships. We look forward to welcoming Lyon and expect a very entertaining match at Red Bull Arena that will please Red Bulls fans and soccer enthusiasts across the tri-state area."

"I have such a fantastic memory of winning the LFP Champions Trophy in July 2012 at Red Bull Arena, which perfectly launched our season. Since then, regularly speaking with Gerard Houllier, I knew we would soon be back and I immediately responded when it was proposed that we play against the New York Red Bulls this summer," said Olympique Lyonnais President Jean-Michel Aulas. "Through our international brand building program, being hosted by the Red Bulls proves to be a symbolic landmark. We are very proud to have been the New York Red Bulls' choice for this exciting exhibition game next July."

Juninho had a storied career playing for Lyon from 2001-09. The Brazilian recorded 100 goals in 344 matches in all competitions and his goal mark is fourth all-time in Lyon history. Juninho, who played under current Global Sporting Director of Red Bull Soccer Gerard Houllier from 2005-07, was named Ligue 1 Player of the Year in the 2005-06 season and was a three-time member of the Ligue 1 Team of the Year.

Luyindula was able to compete in the UEFA Champions League at Lyon from 2001-2004, scoring 46 goals in 126 appearances in all competitions while helping his team win two league championships.