EXCLUSIVE | Mark Hateley on Monaco: “Filipe Luís has knocked it out of the park”

Former AS Monaco striker Mark Hateley praised the team's impressive start to the season, highlighting their top position after five games. Hateley noted that the absence of Folarin Balogun, their former leading scorer, has been tough for Monaco, but the club managed to win crucial away matches against Marseille, Paris Saint-Germain, and draw with Strasbourg.

He also mentioned the recent takeover of Paris FC by the Arnault family and the potential for a Paris derby, which he believes would be beneficial for French football. Hateley commended Paris Brunner for his exceptional performance, comparing his impact to Kevin Kelsy's arrival at Rangers. He expressed concern over the extensive playing schedule for Monaco and emphasized the importance of building a strong squad to compete in both domestic and European competitions.

Hateley considered Monaco capable of winning the league but acknowledged the challenges ahead, such as keeping players fit and motivated. He suggested that a bit of luck may be required for Monaco to maintain their success. Hateley concluded by discussing the importance of competition in French football, likening it to the Premier League in England, and expressed hope that Monaco's young talent, Lamine Camara, would flourish under the club's guidance.