Strong words on the eve of the play-off
Paulo Fonseca left no room for doubt on Tuesday in his news conference. Asked about Malick Fofana’s future, the Olympique Lyonnais coach shut it down: “I think he’ll be a player who stays with us. He is very motivated to stay with us.”
The Portuguese boss also explained the condition of a player who has come a long way. “It was a difficult spell for Malick, he had surgery, came back with pain, but now he is fine, physically and mentally.”
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The fee matters more than the desire
Fonseca did not deny offers exist. He simply shifted the focus. “We are not worried about selling Malick, if we want to sell him now, we have offers. If other clubs want Malick, they will have to pay. The club has turned down offers because the club believes in this player.”
AS Roma are among the most persistent suitors in recent weeks. The Belgian winger has come through a season hit by injury problems and ankle surgery. Even so, he remains Lyon’s biggest asset.
Lois Openda, who arrived this summer, backed up his compatriot’s calm approach: “his mindset is positive, he wants to play this match tomorrow.”
25 million euros riding on Wednesday night
The schedule explains part of the firmness. OL host Fenerbahce on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League play-off. Qualification would bring in around 25 million euros and send the club back into the competition six years after their last appearance.
Lyon still have financial obligations and must sell again. The Rhone club’s transfer business has been put on hold while they wait for the outcome of the two-legged tie. The plan for the final days of the window will be decided straight after.
Fonseca’s stance, then, only applies for now. Wednesday’s result will matter far more than any quote.
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