‘Sometimes change is painful, but justified’ – John Textor explains Pierre Sage sacking | OneFootball

Speaking in a press conference at the unveiling of new Olympique Lyonnais manager Paulo Fonseca, owner John Textor took some time to explain to the press his thoughts behind the sacking of Pierre Sage as manager last week. “The supporters’ groups are varied and most of them were close to Pierre and connected with him,” began Textor on Sage in a press conference transcribed the club’s website. “I too had a connection with him. Pierre helped us reconnect with the club. But I’m sure the supporters will understand this decision. Sometimes change can be painful. Pierre did an exceptional job last season. However, some changes are necessary in our strategy.“The French coach was told on Monday by Olympique Lyonnais owner and president John Textor that he would no longer coach Les Gones. The 45-year-old Sage had rapidly become a surprise hit last season when, despite no previous managerial experience at the highest level, he took Lyon from a relegation battle to Europa League and a Coupe de France final – which they lost to PSG – in a matter of months.“My role is to optimise the conditions so that we can play in the Champions League and increase our chances of doing so,” Textor said on the reasons for deciding to sack Sage. “Yesterday’s match was a good example of that: we survived, we qualified. But we want to go further and increase our chances of success. The chants for Pierre were a fitting tribute and fully deserved.”GFFN | George Boxall