the return to grace of Youssouf Fofana!
Sunday March 20, around 11 p.m. Youssouf Fofana has probably just completed the most successful match of his season with AS Monaco against the band of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé. Decisive passer, first in recovered balls, first in forward passes, the former Strasbourg player was everywhere in the midfield and largely contributed to the Principality club’s wide success over PSG (3-0). A full match, in the wake of those made with ASM against Metz (1-2) or even the weekend in Troyes (2-1).
To Louis II in the locker room so happy and delighted to have overthrown the formation which will undoubtedly finish champion of France, there is no doubt that different feelings went through his head then. Moments of doubt such as during his slump at the end of 2021, the deterioration of his relationship with Niko Kovac, his integration into a rotation with Matazo and Jean Lucas, injuries, COVID, in short all the complicated moments who marked his season.
How can we also forget his first complicated contacts with Philippe Clément last January when the Belgian technician found him physically short. A fortunately short-lived situation: “Youssouf’s level has increased a lot in recent weeks. When I arrived, he was injured. He was then ill and lacked physicality. Afterwards, he scratched more and more minutes. I was not happy with him. On video work. He has grown and I am now satisfied with that,” Confessed, moreover, Philippe Clément a few days ago.
Youssouf Fofana, the X factor of Monaco
To the point of regaining the place that was his a few months ago and of making No. 22 of ASM one of the best midfielders in Ligue 1. Strong in duels, in counter-pressing, and in scratch balls, the Monegasque midfielder also stands out in the last pass, as evidenced by his 4 offerings since the start of the season. Facing PSG, Fofana was everywhere and hurt the Parisian midfielder very badly.
While we were only talking about Aurélien Tchouaméni, Youssouf Fofana, who rained and shined in Monaco’s midfield last season with the French international contributing greatly to the club’s excellent 2021-22 season then coached by Niko Kovac, regained his ardor and drive. Above all, he has breathed new life into a blunt Tchouaméni in recent weeks. And according to the Monegasque coach, it is not ready to change. “For the moment, the most effective duo is that made up of Aurélien and Youssouf. The players themselves will seek their place in the eleven. It’s what they demonstrate in training that determines the choice of coach.”
In full confidence and in top form, Youssouf Fofana (under contract until June 2024) is back at his best and can now aim very high. The 23-year-old midfielder has found the light and sets no limits. Excellent news for AS Monaco, current 6th in Ligue 1, who will need him to try to snatch a qualification for the European Cup next season. It starts with a top game against Rennes at Roazhon Park this Friday evening.