Monaco’s new season has opened with the clean lines of a dream. Filipe Luis, appointed in the summer after winning both the Brazilian league title and Copa Libertadores with Flamengo, has quickly placed his mark on the club from the Principality.
AS Monaco sit top of Ligue 1 before Saturday’s home match against Toulouse, a sixth-round fixture that will test an early pace-setter. They have also come through the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds to secure a place in the league phase.
Quick facts
- Filipe Luis joined Monaco during the summer after success with Flamengo.
- Monaco lead Ligue 1 ahead of hosting Toulouse on Saturday in Matchday 6.
- The club has qualified for the Conference League league phase.
- Monaco will play CSKA Sofia, Freiburg, Nordsjaelland, Heart of Midlothian, Brighton and Lincoln Red Imps between 15 October and 17 December.
The 41-year-old Brazilian coach has made clear that Europe is not being treated as a side mission. Monaco see the Conference League as a genuine route towards silverware, despite the strength of several opponents in the competition.
“There are many major clubs involved,” Filipe Luis said. “Brighton are third in the Premier League, Freiburg reached the Europa League final last season, and there are other strong teams. But it is true that we have a real chance to fight for the title.”
He stopped short of making a promise. “Saying that we have to win it is another matter. Becoming champions is very difficult. You need to prove that you deserve such a wonderful trophy.”
For Monaco, though, the opportunity is clear. “It is a big chance to achieve something special this season,” he added. “I take the competition very seriously, personally, and I hope my players will follow me.”
The European programme begins on 15 October and runs until 17 December. CSKA Sofia, Freiburg, Nordsjaelland, Hearts, Brighton and Gibraltar’s Lincoln Red Imps await, while Toulouse arrive first at the Stade Louis-II with Monaco holding the Ligue 1 summit.
