Why Lyon turned down Crystal Palace’s Pierre Sage despite his devotion

Pierre Sage would have been a popular appointment at Olympique Lyonnais. The Frenchman, a lifelong fan of the club, has said he still has unfinished business there after leaving in early 2025, when he was replaced by Paulo Fonseca.

Paulo Fonseca departed Olympique Lyonnais last week to join his boyhood side Sporting CP. Lyon did not wish to lose the Portuguese manager but also did not want to stand in his way. The vacancy raised the prospect of Sage returning, yet the club instead appointed Carlos Vicens, who had been unemployed since leaving SC Braga in October.

Sporting director Matthieu Louis‑Jean explained at Vicens’ unveiling why Lyon chose not to pursue Sage. Lens president said Sage is under contract at Crystal Palace, making him unavailable, and that Carlos matched the profile they sought, he told reporters on Tuesday.

Sage may soon be released from his Crystal Palace contract, as he is expected to be dismissed. A return to RC Lens, which he left for Selhurst Park over the summer, has been suggested. Nevertheless, he remains the priority target of Lyon owner and president Joseph Oughourlian, according to L’Équipe.