"Thank you for making me feel at home": Paulo Fonseca's farewell letter to Lyon

Fonseca departs Lyon mid-season to join Sporting CP, fulfilling a childhood dream, in an emotional farewell letter thanking the club and supporters.

Paulo Fonseca has officially left Olympique Lyonnais to join Sporting CP, ending his tenure at the French club mid-season. In a farewell letter posted on social media, the 56-year-old Portuguese manager expressed deep gratitude to Lyon's leadership, staff, players and supporters, describing the club as having become "much more than a workplace" and "a home" where he felt trusted, supported and respected.

Fonseca acknowledged the difficult moments during his time in Lyon, including a nine-month suspension following a confrontation with a referee during a Ligue 1 match. Despite this, he highlighted the emotional connection with the fans, noting their passion and the shared moments would remain forever in his memory. He explained his departure as an opportunity to fulfil a childhood dream, stating: "Football has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. And sometimes it gives you the chance to realise a dream you've carried since childhood. That moment has arrived for me."

Fonseca will make his Sporting CP debut at home on Saturday (21:30) against Moreirense in the Portuguese championship's 11th round.