OL: Louis-Jean explains why Sage return was never 'an option' to replace Fonseca

Lyon sporting director Louis-Jean confirmed Pierre Sage was never considered to replace Fonseca, citing his contract at Crystal Palace.

Carlos Vicens was unveiled as Lyon's new head coach on Tuesday, replacing Paulo Fonseca. Accompanied by general manager Michael Gerlinger and sporting director Matthieu Louis-Jean, the 43-year-old Spanish coach presented his project to the media, emphasizing a Guardiola-inspired approach to the game.

Many Lyon supporters had called for the return of Pierre Sage, the club's former manager now struggling at Crystal Palace. However, Louis-Jean dismissed the possibility, stating: "Pierre is under contract, so no, it wasn't really an option. We worked on a list of coaches with specific criteria and principles. And Carlos matched perfectly."

Louis-Jean explained the club sought a young and ambitious coach, and Vicens fit the profile as a former Manchester City assistant and Guardiola disciple who recently managed Braga. Vicens signed an 18-month contract through 2028, with an additional optional year contingent on European qualification.