Michael Gerlinger keeps tone light on Paulo Fonseca future as Lyon target continuity | OneFootball

Michael Gerlinger struck a light note on Paulo Fonseca’s future, while Lyon underlined that keeping the coach remains the aim. Discussions are to be held when the moment is right.

According to L'Équipe, sporting director Matthieu Louis-Jean said the club are seeking continuity and stability and want to continue with Fonseca. He added that important matches are coming and that both parties know the coach’s value, so any decision must be shared.

Louis-Jean said Fonseca enjoys Lyon and praised his work, stressing the ambition to be even better. He conceded the Champions League play-off exit to Fenerbahçe, 1-2 after a 1-1 first leg, but noted last season’s 4th-place finish in Ligue 1 was the club’s best in six years and that they are heading the right way.

Pressed on whether Lyon can meet terms once set by former president John Textor, Gerlinger replied that nothing has been discussed and he does not know the figure involved. He said the talks would also depend on where the team stand at that time, including whether Champions League qualification is within reach.

He described a very family-minded environment at the club, saying there is strong affection and that they know what they have with Fonseca. The conversation could arrive before Christmas, when Gerlinger and Fonseca plan to celebrate with Lyon’s Brazilian community and may even swap Brazilian gifts. Gerlinger added that Fonseca is very happy in the city and jokingly suggested he might ask for only 1,000 euros a month.

Source: L'Équipe

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