AS Monaco manager Filipe Luís has refuted claims that his team are among the favourites to win the UEFA Europa Conference League, despite widespread opinion placing them as strong contenders for the trophy.
The Principality club qualified for the competition after falling short of their objective to return to the UEFA Champions League last season. This marks Monaco’s first time competing in the Europa Conference League, a tournament they reportedly did not initially aim for.
Downplaying Expectations
Speaking in a press conference, Luís was quick to dismiss the ‘favourites’ tag. “Favourites? I don’t think so,” he stated, echoing a sentiment recently expressed by Barcelona manager Hansi Flick. “As Hansi Flick said on Tuesday, you only win titles in May and June. It is impossible to do so now.”
The Monaco boss further stressed that his team has much to prove. He added that the true measure of their capabilities would only become clear towards the end of the season, suggesting a cautious approach despite the external pressure.
Other Contenders
Monaco are not alone in being tipped for success in the competition. Alongside them, English Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion and German outfit Freiburg are also widely considered strong contenders. Freiburg reached the UEFA Europa League final last season, where they were defeated by Aston Villa.
With the competition set to intensify, Luís’s comments highlight a desire to manage expectations and focus on the long journey ahead rather than succumbing to early pressure.