Paulo Fonseca Set for Sporting CP Return as Lyon Prepare for Managerial Change
Lyon head coach Paulo Fonseca is reportedly close to leaving the French club to take charge of Sporting CP for the remainder of the season. The Portuguese manager is said to have reached an agreement with the Lisbon-based side, raising the prospect of a return to his homeland after nearly two years in France.
Fonseca’s potential departure comes shortly after he appeared emotional following Lyon’s 2-0 victory over Angers last weekend. The result could prove to be one of his final matches in charge of Les Gones, with negotiations over a move to Sporting reportedly progressing.
Sporting are currently searching for a new manager after parting ways with Rui Borges following a disappointing run of results. The Lions have collected 21 points from their opening 10 Liga Portugal matches, leaving them nine points behind leaders Porto, who have maintained a perfect record with 30 points.
According to Foot Mercato, Sporting have identified Fonseca as their preferred candidate to fill the managerial vacancy. The club are reportedly hoping to finalise an agreement ahead of their upcoming Champions League fixture against Shakhtar Donetsk.
Fonseca Edges Closer to Sporting Return
Although Sporting have yet to officially confirm an agreement with Lyon over Fonseca’s departure, reports from Foot Mercato and transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano suggest that the Portuguese coach has already reached an agreement with the club.
His appointment is expected to be announced in the near future, potentially bringing an end to his spell in charge of Lyon. A return to Portugal would also represent a homecoming for Fonseca, who is now being lined up to lead one of the country’s most prominent clubs.
Fonseca has enjoyed a relatively successful spell in France since taking charge of Lyon in January 2025. Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding the club, he managed to guide them into the Europa League, demonstrating his ability to maintain competitive standards during a challenging period.
Across 82 matches in all competitions, Fonseca recorded 46 victories, 12 draws and 24 defeats, giving him a win rate of approximately 56 per cent.
His record at Lyon provides a strong foundation for his next managerial challenge, although taking charge of Sporting would bring a different level of expectation. The Portuguese giants will be looking for an immediate improvement in results as they attempt to close the gap on Porto and strengthen their position in domestic and European competition.
For Fonseca, the potential move represents an opportunity to return to familiar surroundings and lead a club with significant ambitions. Meanwhile, Lyon will face the task of finding a suitable successor should his departure from France be completed.
