AS Monaco enjoyed a strong start to their Ligue 1 campaign, but their momentum appears to have slowed in recent weeks. This dip in form is reportedly prompting the first questions regarding the management of Brazilian coach Filipe Luís, according to L’Équipe.
Despite currently holding third place in the league table, Monaco’s recent results have seen them go three consecutive matches in Ligue 1 without securing a victory. This run includes a 2-2 draw against Toulouse FC, followed by their first defeat of the season, a 1-0 loss away to FC Lorient. Most recently, a 1-1 draw against LOSC Lille extended their winless streak.
In contrast to their domestic struggles, Monaco has maintained strong form in European competition, securing a second consecutive victory in the Conference League with a convincing 3-0 win over SC Freiburg.
Concerns Over Attacking Options
The primary area of concern highlighted is Filipe Luís’s approach to managing his squad, particularly in attack. While 20-year-old Paris Brunner has established himself as a regular starter and is performing well at the forefront of Monaco’s attack, his efforts alone are not consistently securing victories.
Scrutiny has fallen on the limited playing time afforded to other key attacking players. Mika Biereth, 23, has played just 57 minutes in Ligue 1 this season, while 25-year-old Folarin Balogun has accumulated only 71 minutes. Matthis Abline, a 23-year-old forward signed for an estimated €30 million, has made three starts across seven appearances.
This management approach has been described by some as perplexing, especially considering the estimated €75 million value of the players available on the bench. The perceived underutilisation of these attacking talents is now a focal point as Monaco seeks to regain their early-season Ligue 1 momentum.