AS Monaco Vice President and General Manager Oleg Petrov commented on the end of the AS Monaco season, with a word on the club’s outlook from current coach Leonardo Jardim.
Beaten by Nice on the Allianz Riviera pitch in their last L1 match of the season, AS Monaco still ensured having a place in Ligue 1 next season. Indeed, thanks to the defeat of Caen at home against the Girondins de Bordeaux, the Principality’s finished the season in 17th place, just one slot ahead of relegation. A rescue in extremis as noted by Oleg Petrov, Vadim Vasilyev’s successor who took over club leadership in the last several months.
“It has been a very difficult season. In the end, we confirmed remaining in Ligue 1. For that, I want to thank all the supporters of the club for their support. In the coming days, we will take stock of the situation, and immediately begin preparations for next season and do everything to restore the image of AS Monaco.”
Strong words, which suggest many changes this summer before the kickoff of the 2019-2020 season, next August.
“I’m happy to have achieved our mission despite defeat”
On his side Leonardo Jardim shared his joy and his relief:
“It was very hard for everyone, not only for me who took advantage of three months out (see: his dismissal). The season has been very difficult and we must think of what’s next, taking into account our mistakes. But today I am very relieved, very happy. In January, I came back for the emotional side, because I love this club, I live in Monaco and because the president called me directly. I’m happy to have achieved our goal despite the defeat. Monaco will continue to play in Ligue 1. Personally, I’ve never experienced relegation and had no desire to become familiar with it.”
What about next season? “We have not yet prepared for next season. We have a lot to think about from this year; how to not make the same mistakes. One doesn’t caller their team a title contender when it does not have the level to reach that goal.”
The Portuguese coach, however, will emphasize the importance of reducing the number of talents: “More than recruiting players, we will have to part ways with some. We currently have more than 72 players under contract. That’s a lot.”
Then, asked about his future in the club, he said with humor: “I have two years left on my contract. I signed and took a risk. Now that we are saved, I think that yes (I’m staying). Even if it’s not me who decides in the end.”
*Article originally published on the French edition of the Monaco Tribune.