Monaco set their sights on a bounce-back this weekend as head coach Adi Hütter and midfielder Maghnes Akliouche faced the press ahead of Sunday’s clash with RC Strasbourg at Stade Louis-II.
Tough test ahead for Hütter’s men
Monaco will be eager to regroup after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Lille, with Olivier Giroud instrumental for the visitors. The Austrian coach stressed Strasbourg’s quality, describing them as a solid, young side that has collected six points so far this season and arrives in Monte Carlo with plenty of confidence. “They’re a solid team, they’ve won three matches in all competitions this season, including two in Ligue 1 and a very important one yesterday at Brondby in the Conference League play-off final. They’ll come with a lot of confidence. They’re the youngest team in the league, they have a good coach and they play beautiful football. It’s a big challenge for us, and we can’t wait to face them,” Hütter said.
Monaco’s injury and selection picture
Hütter reported that most of his squad is available, though some players are still working to integrate back into the group. He confirmed interest in Pogba’s return but warned against rushing him back. “We still hope that Paul Pogba will be back as soon as possible. Everyone is satisfied with his attitude. We must protect him and not send him onto the pitch too early. Almost everyone is available. Ansu Fati is getting closer to the group and Vanderson trained in the gym this morning,” the coach noted.
Akliouche shines after France call-up
Maghnes Akliouche, who has become an increasingly prominent figure for Monaco, enjoyed fresh recognition this week with his first call-up to the French national team. The 23-year-old expressed pride and gratitude, insisting he remains focused on continuing to improve. “A lot of pride. It was a nice surprise, a great moment for me and for my loved ones. I work every day for this kind of thing. I know I can be even more effective in this area. For an offensive player, these days, it’s becoming more and more important to help your team with statistics,” he said.
What lies ahead for Akliouche
With the transfer window closing, Akliouche was also asked about his future. He replied calmly that football always holds surprises, but for now he is focused on Monaco’s upcoming match: “In football, anything can happen. Now, I’m at AS Monaco, and I feel good here. We have a match to prepare for this Sunday – that’s what I’m thinking about.” Club officials echoed his sentiment, with Thiago Scuro, Monaco’s sporting director, reiterating the club’s intent to keep the forward. “From our side, there is no chance of him leaving. Since June, I have said that our ambition was to keep him with us. We hope that he will be able to represent AS Monaco at the next World Cup,” Scuro remarked. The general manager also stressed Monaco would resist outsized offers for Akliouche.
What to watch on Sunday
– Akliouche’s involvement in the attack and whether his growing link with teammates like Fati translates into decisive performances.
– Pogba’s timeline and how quickly he can rejoin first-team training and compete for minutes.
– Monaco’s response after the Lille setback and how they handle Strasbourg’s youthful dynamism.
– The club’s stance on Akliouche’s contract and transfer market strategy as the season progresses.
Summary and outlook
Monaco face a stern test against a Strasbourg side on a positive run, but the ambiance around the club is buoyant. Akliouche’s fresh France call-up is a personal milestone that reflects Monaco’s ongoing production line of talents, while the club’s leadership emphasize a desire to retain their rising star. If Hütter can steward a balanced lineup and Akliouche can further improve his goal and assist output, Monaco will hope to translate this confidence into a successful home result and maintain momentum in Ligue 1.
Overall, this week offers a clear narrative: a young, talented Monaco squad looking to rebound quickly, guided by a coach who respects the challenge Strasbourg bring, and driven by the rising rise of Akliouche as he continues to prove his value on both club and international stages.