Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca made his return to the dugout in the latest Ligue 1 match against Lorient, ending a lengthy 279-day suspension. Although Lyon suffered a 0-1 defeat, Fonseca expressed immense satisfaction at being back on the touchline.

The suspension, which lasted nine months, stemmed from a confrontation with the referee during a match against Brest in March, where Fonseca argued intensely with the official.

Speaking after the match, Fonseca stated that the feeling of returning to the pitch after nine months was "very great." He noted the significant difference between directing the team pitch-side and watching from the stands: "Being alongside the players again, feeling the game this way, is completely different. I am very happy."

Fonseca also reflected on the unique perspective gained from the stands, explaining that the elevated view allowed him to observe situations and movements that are often difficult to spot when coaching at ground level. He is now focused on fully engaging with the team again for the remainder of the season.