Paulo Fonseca insists on the need to “rest mentally” before the shock against Saint-Étienne

Lyon - Faced with the growing pressure and the importance of the remaining deadlines, Paulo Fonseca, coach of Olympique Lyonnaise (OL), insisted on Saturday on the need for his team to get mentally back to the game against Ligue 1, counting on 33rd day of Ligue 1. After a tough defeat against Manchester United (120 minutes), the Lyons now have to focus on a crucial shift in the Chaudron.

Currently fourth, three points from Monaco and four from the Olympique de Marseille (OM), OL can no longer afford to stagnate. “Now we only have five very important games left,” recalled Fonseca. Despite the disappointment with qualifying in the Europa League, the Portuguese technician stressed that there was no time to be depressed or to cry. We have to react.

The match against Saint-Étienne is seen as a key moment for OL. Fonseca said that this match was independent of that against Manchester. However, he acknowledged that the derby was a special match for the fans, and also for us. But the most important thing remains the three points. They could be very valuable.

The coach also announced that he will have to make changes on Sunday, it’s mandatory after such a match because of the physical efforts made. Physical recovery of the group is a priority. Alexandre Lacazette, for his part, expressed his optimism: The essential thing is to evacuate and be ready for Sunday. We have an exciting end of season, and it makes digestion easier.

Fonseca also warned against the underestimation of the AS Saint-Étienne, which he considers to be a team that plays a crucial moment. I am also surprised, given their quality, that they are in this position. He expects one of the toughest games of the end of the season.

With five days remaining to be contested, Lyon’s ambitions remain intact. “If we win all our games, that’s the most important,” said Alexandre Lacazette. The game against ASSE is scheduled for Sunday at 8:45 p.m. and will be aired on DAZN.