« Is this team ready for such a crucial moment? »
The Lyon manager acknowledges a shortened pre-season but remains confident. “We’ve worked hard, and despite missing a few key players, the squad is in good shape,” he explains.

Reflecting on the heavy 0-4 loss to Real Betis last week, Fonseca admits it was a normal pre-season adjustment phase. “Players like Malick Fofana, Ernest Nuamah, and Loïs Openda arrived later, and the young forwards need time to reach top form,” he notes.

Injury concerns and key absences

Fonseca confirms that Pavel Šulc and Mads Bidstrup are sidelined due to injuries. “Šulc has a knee inflammation, while Bidstrup has cartilage issues. I hope he recovers quickly,” he shares. Šulc’s delayed arrival was due to his World Cup commitments, making his return to action even more challenging.

Sparta Prague’s ace up their sleeve

The Lyon boss warns about Adam Karabec, Sparta Prague’s standout player. “He’s free on the pitch, versatile, and highly motivated. We’ll need to be cautious with set pieces—he might know our strategies,” Fonseca cautions. Still, he remains composed about the rest of the matchup.

« We have the capability to reach the Champions League, and we must do everything to make it happen. It won’t be easy, but we’re ready. »

The stakes ahead of the double-header

The first leg in Prague on August 4th and the return match on August 11th loom large. “The group is fully aware of the importance of these fixtures,” Fonseca states. “After a tough domestic campaign, everyone understands the significance of the Champions League for Lyon. We must believe nothing is impossible—we have what it takes, even if victory will demand everything from us.”