OL expresses its displeasure over Paulo Fonseca's departure

Paulo Fonseca officially leaves Olympique Lyonnais, the Lyon club which confirmed his departure after his arrival on 31 January 2025 to succeed Pierre Sage. The Portuguese coach, whose contract was due to run until 30 June 2027, announced his desire to join Sporting Portugal, his beloved club, mid‑season.

The Lyon club confirmed the departure of its Portuguese manager, who arrived on 31 January 2025 to succeed Pierre Sage. He had signed a contract until 30 June 2027. Fonseca was previously manager of Lille and AC Milan.

In a statement, the Lyon management expressed its displeasure at this mid‑season departure, calling it an unexpected and regrettable decision. “Approached in recent days by a club to which he is particularly attached, Paulo Fonseca informed the board of his wish to leave Olympique Lyonnais. An unexpected decision, which OL deeply regrets, especially given its timing mid‑season.” The club judged that continuing the collaboration would no longer ensure the total commitment required for the project.

Motta’s €4m salary demand blocks path to replace Fonseca at Lyon

Sporting director Mathieu Louis‑Jean said the news had been a big surprise for him. “It was a big surprise. When Paulo came to see me to announce that he wanted to leave OL, it was a shock, a surprise. It was last Thursday, or Wednesday.” He explained that the coach was determined to join Sporting Portugal, his beloved club, despite the decisive period of the season.

Olympique Lyonnais agreed to negotiate with Sporting Portugal and secured a compensation of five million euros. The statement specifies that Sporting Portugal will pay this sum to OL because of the early termination of Paulo Fonseca’s contract.

Lyon dismisses Fonseca and appoints Maciel as interim manager

Despite the tensions, the club thanked Fonseca for his commitment and wished him all the best for the future. Jorge Maciel will take charge of the team for the final two matches, against Real Sociedad and Brest, before the next international break.