Paulo Fonseca responds to Nemanja Matic’s criticisms and prepares for the match against Rennes
Olympique Lyonnais (OL) coach Paulo Fonseca took the floor at a press conference on Thursday to discuss recent events concerning player Nemanja Matic. Annoyed by his lack of playing time in the last major matches, notably in the quarterfinals of the Europa League against Manchester United and in the derby against Saint-Étienne, Matic had expressed his frustration in the locker room.
When asked about this situation, Paulo Fonseca said: “I understand the frustration of players who do not play. However, I am the coach and make the decisions I think are the best for the team. I talked to Nemanja after the first game against Manchester United and he feels better now. He’s ready to play our next game.”
Fonseca also discussed whether he apologized to Matic: “I don’t need to apologize for my decisions. I’m the coach and I make the decisions I think I’m right for the team. "
OL will face Stade Rennais this weekend in Ligue 1 (31st day) at the Groupama Stadium, arbitrated by Mr Bollengier. Paulo Fonseca will be able to count on Malick Fofana, a key player on the Lyon squad.
The Lyon - Rennes match looks tight and exciting. The Lyons will have to recover from their elimination in the Europa League against Manchester United and their defeat against Saint-Étienne to hope to win this weekend.
Malick Fofana should be a centerpiece in this meeting, after having impressed in the last matches with his offensive and defensive performances. Paulo Fonseca praised his player’s qualities: “Offensively and defensively, his presence changes everything. Malick is crucial in our offensive transitions. "
While waiting for the match against Rennes, the atmosphere at Parc OL will be less lively than during the match at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, with a capacity of 16,000 spectators expected on Sunday. The Lyon club hopes to reach the 20,000 spectator mark thanks to a Feder DJ Set after the game.
Women’s OL CEO Vincent Ponsot said that multiple stadium moves are not conducive to public development and that a fixed venue adapted to the club’s ambitions would be desirable. The case is in progress, but it has not yet been finalized.”