Paulo Fonseca is expected to succeed Stefano Pioli as AC Milan's new manager, but how is his work at Lille viewed in France?
Milan's decision to entrust Fonseca with the role of leading a new era came as a surprise to some, given the availability of more established managers such as Antonio Conte. Several factors suggest it may be a good fit:.
Fonseca finished fourth in the league with Lille's eighth-highest salary bill, no small feat for a club like Milan, and he also improved the team's defensive figures and continued his track record of developing young talent.
His possession-heavy style, ability to help players develop and the balance he offers between the two phases would seem to be enough for the Rossoneri to believe he is the right man, even if he is yet to win a trophy in a 'top five' league and has struggled at Roma.
MilanNews spoke to Sebastien Noé of La Voix du Nord, a newspaper that covers Lille extensively, who shared some insights on the former Porto and Roma manager.
How do you assess Fonseca's work over the past two years?
“The verdict is obviously very positive. Lille have played in European competitions twice and still have a chance to qualify for the Champions League next year. They also reached the quarter-finals of the Conference League this season.”
“And more than the results, he made Lille the team that, along with Paris Saint-Germain, played the best football in Ligue 1, with a style that was very attacking, choosing to keep the ball, taking risks and never giving up. Some of the players who made their mark thanks to him were Edon Dzieglova, Angel Gomes and Lenny Yolo.”
What are the strengths and weaknesses of his management?
“I have explained many things, but first of all I can say that the style of play of Paulo Fonseca's team was really enjoyable. He also delighted the increasingly large and enthusiastic crowds that flocked to the stadium. If I had to point out a negative point, it would be the end of the season.
“On the one hand, Lille have once again qualified for European competition, but on the other hand, at the last minute, they missed out on direct qualification for the Champions League. What's most frustrating is that until the last game, Lille were on track to qualify.”
How did he handle the pressure?
“Honestly, it was very good. For two years he gained the support of the players and they believed in his project. As for relations with the media, there was a language barrier in the first months, but he quickly made an effort to speak French. He was relatively open to talking about different topics.”
Do you think he's the right player for Milan?
“Yes, I think it's a good choice. He has experience not only in France but also in Ukraine. He knows the Italian league well from his time coaching Roma. He has very interesting game principles and an ambition to make a qualitative leap in his career. I think he has the ability to revive a team that is in difficulties this season.”
“And obviously there are better players than the ones you managed at Lille. You have to give him time at the start of the season so the team can understand his game plan. And of course the transfer window will be important.”
But the fans are confused: they don't see him as a winning coach…
“Yes, that's a flaw you can see in his results today. Lille were without them for the last two seasons despite important matches. At Milan he will have to overcome this hurdle.”
Jonathan David is also among AC Milan's targets…
“Joe David has been one of Lille's most important players for four years. He is the team's top scorer, with 19 goals this season. He's not the flashiest striker in the world, nor the most beautiful player, but he scores goals and, above all, his commitment to the team is great. He works well all over the pitch.”
Another player who has been linked is Thiago Santos…
“Thiago Santos has been one of the wonders of Ligue 1 this season. He arrived unnoticed from Portugal last summer and wasn't even expected to start, but he quickly impressed everyone with his athleticism and technique.
“He's a fearsome presence on the counter attack and has a strong shot, while defensively he still has room to grow and still has experience at the highest level.”
