Earlier today, AS Monaco’s Board of Directors announced the appointment of Oleg Petrov as the club’s new General Director.
Appointed by Dmitry Rybolovlev (president of the Monegasque club), 55-year-old Oleg Petrov has prior experience in managing major international companies operating in different sectors, including the diamond industry. A multi-linguist, he also has diverse experience in business, management, and worldwide brand development. He now joins the Monegasque adventure, taking over from recently dispatched Vadim Vasilyev. With his new post, he inherits a the club’s current troubles and the pressing task of maintaining the club’s participation in the Ligue 1. The task will prove complicated no doubt after this topsy-turvy season marked by many changes (Jardim’s departure, Henry’s short-lived tenure, the return of Jardim, Vasilyev’s ousting) and an objectively successful winter mercato.
Mr. Petrov used his first statement as GD to express his honor at being named to the position:
“It is an honor to occupy this role in such a historic club with authentic footballing traditions and with one of the finest histories in the French football league. I am looking forward to meeting all of my new collaborators. Together, we will work hard to help put the club back on track for success over the coming years while continuing to grow. We have a lot of work to do, but the team has huge potential. I am optimistic for the future,” said the new GM, who will work alongside Louis Ducruet, who recently received a promotion to the assistant GM role.
“The changes will allow the club to enter into a new era of success”
Petrov’s arrival also seems to delight Dmitry Rybolovlev, who can once again rely on a long-time friend: “We have known each other for almost 20 years. In all the positions he has held, Oleg has always achieved excellent results. I am convinced that he has all the necessary qualities to succeed in his new role managing the club.”
The president of the club, however, remains pragmatic, recalling current priorities: maintain and revive the club at the highest level.
“After recent difficulties, these changes will allow the club to enter into a new era of success. Top priority now is to focus on the end of the season and do everything possible to continue the team’s recovery to better form.”
*Article originally published on the French edition of the Monaco Tribune.