In the run-up to the return quarter final of Ligue Europa against Manchester United, the OL Lyons coach Paulo Fonseca wanted to come back to the suspension that hit him, following an incident in the OL-Brest match on March 2. Following a tense exchange with the referee, Benoît Millot, the Portuguese tactician received a nine-month suspension imposed by the Disciplinary Commission. In an interview with L’Équipe, Mr. Fonseca categorically denied any physical contact with the arbitrator, stating that he had only made a veil in his face. He pointed out that he had in no way intended to assault Mr. Millot, adding that he had not shown any movement of hindsight, which proved the absence of contact.

The technician also expressed regret about his behaviour, reaffirming that he was the first to acknowledge his error. However, it regrets that the incident was instrumentalized and that public opinion accused him of acts he did not commit. This suspension, paradoxically, seems to have strengthened the Lyon collective, which has demonstrated a remarkable series of results since then, including six wins, one draw and one defeat in eight matches, pushing the team towards a virtual fourth place position in Ligue 1.

According to Paulo Fonseca, this period of distance consolidated the team spirit and the determination of the players to surpass themselves. The coach noted that the suspension facilitated unity within the locker room and strengthened cohesion among all club members. With this positive momentum, Olympique Lyonnais is presenting itself tonight in Old Trafford, with the ambition of obtaining a qualification for the last square of the Europa League. The kick-off will be at 9:00.