John Textor confirms Paulo Fonseca will remain Lyon manager, despite ban | OneFootball

Following his head-to-head with referee Benoît Millot during last weekend’s 2-1 win over Stade Brestois, Olympique Lyonnais manager Paulo Fonseca has been handed a nine-month ban. However, the Portuguese manager’s position at the club is not under threat, as confirmed by owner John Textor.

Fonseca was only appointed Lyon manager at the end of January, however, following Wednesday’s ruling from the LFP, he will not be allowed on the touchline until 30th November, whilst he won’t even be allowed into the dressing room until September. OL have denounced the LFP’s decision, stating that it was “extremely severe” and “unprecedented”. The club added that they would explore avenues to contest the ban, which has come into effect immediately, although it does not (yet) apply to European competitions. It means that Fonseca will be on the touchline for tonight’s UEFA Europa League tie against FCSB.

However, given Fonseca’s absence on the sidelines for almost the rest of 2025, there had been a question mark about his continuation with Les Gones. Textor has, through social media, confirmed the Portuguese manager’s future at the club. “I stand with you today, and always. You made a mistake… Your apology was sincere… and your punishment is clearly too severe. You are the right man for OL and we shall persevere. Allez l’OL,” he said on Instagram.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle