Discover why AS Monaco could be the surprise package of the 2025 Ligue 1 season. Explore their tactics, rising stars, and the reasons they might upset the league hierarchy.
Why AS Monaco Could Surprise Everyone This Season
In recent years, AS Monaco has lived in the shadow of Paris Saint-Germain’s dominance in Ligue 1, with occasional flashes of brilliance but little consistency. However, heading into the 2025 season, there’s a quiet confidence brewing along the French Riviera. A blend of tactical maturity, youthful flair, and smart transfers has set the stage for Monaco to become one of the biggest surprises in European Wbet football this year.
Could AS Monaco be on the verge of a title push? Could they disrupt the league narrative dominated by PSG, Marseille, and Lille? Based on early performances, preseason form, and deeper structural changes, Monaco might just be the dark horse of the league—and here’s why.
A New Chapter Under an Intelligent System
One of the key reasons Monaco is gaining traction is their commitment to a tactically refined and adaptable system. No longer stuck between conservative counterattacks and naive pressing, the club now operates with tactical clarity and precision. Managerial vision, coupled with a technically gifted squad, has given Monaco an identity that is both attractive and effective.
Their 2025 tactical approach includes:
- A hybrid 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 shape
- Double pivot control in midfield
- High verticality and transitions
- Smart positional rotations and pressing traps
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a footballing system that produces results.
Tactical Keys to Monaco’s Resurgence
1. Midfield Double Pivot Mastery
At the heart of Monaco’s system is the midfield duo that dictates tempo and balance. A combination of Youssouf Fofana and Mohamed Camara offers a perfect blend of ball-winning tenacity and line-breaking passes.
- Fofana acts as the metronome, switching play and progressing the ball.
- Camara provides defensive stability, allowing fullbacks and wingers to push forward.
This base ensures that Monaco rarely loses the midfield battle—an essential component for challenging in any league.
2. Width and Overloads
Monaco’s attacking strategy heavily utilizes wide areas. With Caio Henrique and Vanderson as aggressive fullbacks, they often create 2v1 situations on the flanks, forcing defensive reshuffling and opening central channels.
The use of inverted wingers—such as Takumi Minamino or new signings—creates additional unpredictability. These wingers cut inside, freeing fullbacks to overlap, resulting in varied attacking patterns that keep opposition defenders guessing.
3. Compact Press and Vertical Transitions
Monaco’s pressing scheme has become far more structured in 2025. Triggers are based on:
- Back passes
- Isolated ball carriers
- Weak-side overloads
When possession is won, Monaco transitions vertically at pace, often involving 3–4 players in quick combinations to exploit disorganized defences. Their counterattacks are no longer chaotic—they are rehearsed and purposeful.
4. Set-Piece Superiority
Often overlooked, set pieces are now a strength for Monaco. New assistant coaches have developed routines that target:
- Far-post overloads
- Rebounds and second balls
- Short corner deception
They’ve already scored five goals from dead-ball situations this season—more than most teams in the league.
Key Players Who Could Define the Season
1. Wissam Ben Yedder – The Evergreen Leader
Despite age catching up, Ben Yedder remains Monaco’s most clinical finisher. His off-ball intelligence and link-up play make him central to the attacking structure.
2. Eliesse Ben Seghir – Breakout Star in the Making
This young attacking midfielder is drawing comparisons to Bernardo Silva. With sharp dribbling, vision, and confidence beyond his years, Ben Seghir is central to Monaco’s creative future.
3. Guillermo Maripán – Defensive Anchor
The Chilean center-back offers calm leadership in the backline. His aerial dominance and improved passing range have become vital in building from the back.
4. Caio Henrique – Wingback Dynamo
A modern fullback with attacking flair, Caio is crucial to Monaco’s wide build-up and transition play. His assists tally is already among the highest in the league for defenders.
Smart Transfer Window Activity
Monaco’s summer 2025 business was strategic rather than flashy. Rather than chasing big names, they focused on:
- Young, high-ceiling players from South America and Ligue 2
- Loan recalls with proper development plans
- Tactical fits rather than marketable stars
This approach provides depth and flexibility without compromising identity.
Stats That Signal a Shift
- Goals Scored per Game: 2.1 (up from 1.5 last season)
- Expected Goals (xG): Among the top 4 in Ligue 1
- Ball Recoveries in Opponent Half: Top 3 in the league
- Possession Retention: 57%, up from 49% last year
These indicators prove that Monaco’s evolution is backed by data—not just vibes.
Why the League Should Watch Out
PSG may still have the star power, but Monaco has something more dangerous: a cohesive system, underrated depth, and momentum. The biggest threat to traditional top-four teams this season might just be this well-drilled, tactically fluid Monaco side.
Their resilience in away matches, improved game management, and balance across all phases of play make them a real contender for:
- Top 3 finish in Ligue 1
- Cup competition runs
- Return to UEFA Champions League football
It’s Time to Back the League
AS Monaco’s rise in 2025 is proof that Ligue 1 offers more than just PSG dominance. From smart coaching to emerging stars, the league is becoming a hub of modern football and tactical excellence.
⚽ Whether you’re a neutral fan or a football purist, there’s never been a better time to follow the French game.
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