Sébastien Joseph faces sacking over abusive remarks after Lyon defeat | OneFootball

AS Saint-Éttienne women’s head coach Sébastien Joseph has been suspended on a precautionary basis and summoned to a pre-dismissal meeting after directing violent language at the referee following Sunday’s 0-4 defeat at Lyon. He did not oversee Wednesday morning’s training.

L'Équipe reports that the club intends to end Joseph’s deal after Eirik Horneland’s mutual departure. He has led the women’s first team since June 2025.

Joseph confirmed a one-week suspension but declined to discuss the incident, stating he would prepare his defence once he had seen the allegations.

The decision is not based on sporting grounds despite the heavy loss at Groupama Stadium. In the tunnel, he used abusive words towards referee Cécile Bessière. Two reports were filed, one by the referee and one by match delegate Philippe Vital, after which Joseph apologised to the delegate.

An additional post-match flashpoint saw Association president Jean-Marc Barsotti launch a vehement protest against the referee in the sporting zone.

The disciplinary commission will address the incidents on Thursday and is set to decide next week after hearing the parties. An assistant ran Wednesday’s session and players were informed. Saint-Étienne are 11th in Première Ligue with nine points, in the relegation places.

Source: L'Équipe