Olympique Lyonnais have officially announced the appointment of Carlos Vicens as their new manager, with the Spaniard signing a one-and-a-half-year contract. Vicens takes the helm following the departure of Paulo Fonseca, who recently moved to Sporting CP.
Lyon accepted a €5 million offer for Fonseca, prompting a search for his successor. During the interim period, assistant manager Jorge Maciel stepped up, overseeing two matches. Under Maciel, Lyon secured a point against Real Sociedad in the UEFA Europa League but faced a defeat away to Stade Brestois in Ligue 1, highlighting the immediate challenges facing the club.
The managerial vacancy at Lyon attracted interest from several quarters. Thiago Motta was among those considered for the role, while some fans expressed a desire for the return of Pierre Sage, who is reportedly close to leaving Crystal Palace. However, it was Vicens, fresh from his role at SC Braga, who emerged as the preferred candidate and has now been officially confirmed.
Vicens arrives at Lyon with a strong coaching pedigree. He previously worked at Portuguese club SC Braga and notably served on Pep Guardiola’s backroom staff at Premier League champions Manchester City. This experience at one of Europe’s elite clubs, working alongside a highly successful manager, is expected to be a significant asset as he takes on the managerial role at Lyon.
As Vicens begins his tenure, continuity will be provided by Jorge Maciel, who will remain a part of Lyon’s backroom staff. The new manager will have the benefit of the upcoming international break to integrate with his squad and implement his initial strategies. His first competitive fixture will be a Ligue 1 clash against Lille OSC, scheduled for November 21st, marking the start of a new chapter for Olympique Lyonnais.