Crystal Palace coach Pierre Sage watches France vs Spain with Lyon fans in London
New Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage surprised a group of Lyon supporters at a London pub, joining them to watch the World Cup semi-final.
Les supporters lyonnais et français avec Pierre Sage au bar « The Three Lanterns » (DR) Pierre Sage a entraîné l'OL de novembre 2023 à janvier 2025. (A. Martin/L'Équipe)
Newly appointed Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage gave a pleasant surprise to a group of Olympique Lyonnais fans in London this week. The coach, who recently moved to the Premier League, visited the Three Lanterns pub in West London to watch the World Cup semi-final between France and Spain alongside the "Lyondoners," a local Lyon supporter group.
Jonathan-Pierre Lion, a member of the group, revealed that the meeting was the result of an open invitation sent to Sage back when he was managing in Lyon. The coach arrived with his wife, maintaining a humble demeanor throughout the evening.
He was very simple. We almost forgot that we were in front of a Premier League coach. Jonathan-Pierre Lion
During the match, Sage engaged with the supporters, even buying a round of drinks for the group. Beyond the social interaction, his tactical acumen was on full display. Supporters noted that he accurately predicted Didier Deschamps' tactical adjustments, including substitutions and structural changes, well before they occurred on the pitch.
Sage remained at the pub for some time after the final whistle, despite the French defeat. He used the opportunity to ask the local fans for advice on neighborhoods, as he is currently house-hunting in London ahead of his full commitment to his new role.