Ligue 1 McDonald’s resumes this Friday and, for the occasion, LOSC is traveling to AS Monaco. To introduce this round, Le Petit Lillois went to meet Yann (from the media @Lig’ASM), a Monegasque supporter.
What can you tell us about AS Monaco, its start to the season and its current dynamic?
We have had a very good start to the season, whether in Ligue 1 or the Champions League. Apart from a micro misstep against Lens and in Zagreb, in impossible conditions, we have won all our matches since the start of the season. We sense a group of character that doesn’t give up even in the face of difficulty and that’s where we can be dangerous for the opponent. Danger can come from anywhere and at any time.
What are Monegasque ambitions?
In Ligue 1, we aim for nothing other than the podium, at least, and maybe a little better than the first two places, you never know, but I don’t want to dream too soon, even if it’s true that we have quality. For the Champions League, the objective is to finish in the top 24. That wouldn’t be bad, even if I think it really should. If we go to eighth grade it’s a complete success.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of AS Monaco? And the key player?
Monaco’s strengths are numerous. Danger can come from anywhere. Defenders, midfielders, wingers, attackers, all are capable of scoring and have already proven it. And even in defense we became solid. Our weakness can be our phases of deconcentration, which happen from time to time. Our wounds too (Balogun, Salisu). Our key player, I would say Zakaria, real boss of our midfield.
Do you consider the absence of Folarin Balogun to be very detrimental?
Yes, for me, the absence of Balogun is very problematic. He came back in great shape, he was impactful and something very strong was taking place in association with Ilenikhena. Embolo is having a lot of difficulties this season, and we risk seeing him start again alone against LOSC when things aren’t working for him…
How do you plan for the upcoming match?
I must admit that I am not confident against LOSC. It’s a team that has very often caused us problems in recent seasons and this victory against Real Madrid can unite a whole group and I imagine them with the knife between their teeth for the rest of the season. Lille scares me.
Do you have any special memories of these regular oppositions?
A Monaco – Lille that I remember would perhaps be the match of last season, with the race for 2-3rd place. We had no room for error and we managed to emerge victorious from this match with a magnificent left-footed strike from Fofana. This strike was completely improbable.
As a Monegasque supporter, what does LOSC represent in your eyes, how do you perceive it?
I really like LOSC. It’s a club that I respect a lot, both for its image, its management, and the players who have passed through the club. It is a club that must play for the top 5 at least every season. There are a lot of qualities in the current squad.
Is there a player you are wary of on the LOSC side?
Lucas Chevalier scares me. I’m already starting to anticipate the extraterrestrial arrests he’s going to make on us tomorrow at the Louis II. Knowing that I will be at the stadium, I risk yelling because of him.
Or do you imagine LOSC and AS Monaco at the end of the season?
I hope AS Monaco will be among the top two. The duel with OM will be interesting, and the competition strong, but I hope to see Lille scratch the podium in front of OM, but behind us obviously (laughs).
Finally, what would be your scenario and your prediction for this match?
With a return from the break like that, I think thirteen of our players were with their selection, we have two major injuries. I find it hard to imagine that we can win this match. I would say a draw, with a goal everywhere (1-1).
