Mourinho defends Sage and Tackle Textor

José Mourinho surprised by providing unexpected support to Pierre Sage, under pressure in Lyon. The Portuguese has not chewed his words.

This Thursday evening, after the draw between Fenerbahçe and Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League (0-0), José Mourinho once again demonstrated that he does not have his language in his pocket. While Pierre Sage, the OL coach faces growing pressure after four games without victory, the Portuguese technician did not hesitate to defend him publicly, while unchecking a well felt arrow with regard to John Textor, the President of Lyon.

Mourinho takes a stand in the OL crisis

On Canal +antennas, The Special One spoke with its usual outspokenness. “Now football … incredible club numbers, with owners, with presidents who know nothing about football”, he launched, clearly referring to Textor. “There are no more presidents who remain 20 years like Mr. Aulas or Mr. Pinto Da Costa. This team (OL) is a good team. And a good team is only a good team when the coach is a good coach. »» Support that could weigh heavy, coming from a coach of Mourinho's caliber.

Wise in front of intense pressure

Asked about his future at the end of the meeting, Pierre Sage did not dodge. He denounced the harmful impact of rumors relayed in the press, especially on his alleged “Ultimatum”. “The famous ultimatum could have influenced my management of the end of the match”, he said. However, faithful to its line of conduct, Sage insisted on the importance of favoring the interest of the team rather than yielding to pressure. “I decided to think of OL and balance, rather than letting go. »»

In this delicate period, Sage can count on the support of its players, starting with its captain Alexandre Lacazette.

“We are all behind him, we fight for him”, said the striker after the match. This testimony reflects the unity of the locker room around a coach they consider invested and competent.

Towards a crucial decision for Textor

If John Textor still has to officially decide on Sage's future, Mourinho's words and the support displayed by the locker room could weigh in the balance. For OL, keeping wise at the head of the team may be the choice of reason, as the Lyonnais technician himself pointed out.

Between media pressures and unwavering support of his peers, Sage remains determined to continue his work in a particularly tense atmosphere.