Lyon's Paulo Fonseca faces nine-month ban, allowed to coach against Manchester United

Paulo Fonseca, the head coach of Olympique Lyonnais, is currently serving a nine-month ban from domestic matches following an altercation with referee Benoît Millot during a Ligue 1 game against Brest. Despite the suspension, which prevents him from accessing the touchline and dressing rooms in domestic competitions, Fonseca is allowed to coach Lyon in the UEFA Europa League matches, including their upcoming clash against Manchester United. He has adapted his coaching style, conducting team talks outside the dressing room and addressing players briefly upon arrival at the stadium. Fonseca expressed the challenge of being unable to communicate directly with players during matches, which he finds particularly difficult. Lyon's management continues to support Fonseca, who is optimistic about the team's performance as they prepare for the Europa League quarter-finals. Additionally, Fonseca plans to appeal his suspension to the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, with a hearing scheduled for May 6, 2025.