AS Monaco’s 100th anniversary brought former head coach Arsène Wenger back to the Principality, where he shared reflections on his transformative tenure with the club. Wenger, who led Monaco to their Ligue 1 triumph in 1988, reminisced about his years with the Rouge et Blanc, a period that elevated the team to prominence in European football.
During the milestone celebration, held during a match against Montpellier in September, Wenger spoke about his cherished memories and the evolution of the club. Returning to Monaco, Wenger expressed admiration for the club’s transformation, highlighting the newly established Performance Centre. He remarked on the incredible progress in infrastructure, noting how it now rivals Europe’s best and plays a crucial role in attracting and nurturing top talent.
Wenger praised the club’s enduring sense of community, describing Monaco as a family-like environment that fosters pride and a commitment to playing dynamic, attacking football. He emphasised that such an atmosphere, combined with world-class facilities, has been key to the club’s success and growth. Reflecting on his early days at AS Monaco, Wenger fondly recalled the camaraderie and ambition within the team. He credited former club president Jean-Louis Campora for providing the tools necessary for success, including the recruitment of standout players like George Weah.
Wenger recounted how Weah arrived as an unknown talent but quickly rose to global prominence through hard work and determination. This, he said, exemplified the potential players can unlock in the right environment. Wenger’s debut season with Monaco brought immediate success, securing the Ligue 1 title in 1988. Under his guidance, the club also reached two Coupe de France finals, securing one victory. He recalled how those achievements paved the way for Monaco’s regular participation in European competitions.
Wenger expressed pride in coaching players who went on to achieve global recognition, including Ballon d’Or winner George Weah and French football legends Lilian Thuram and Emmanuel Petit. He credited Monaco’s supportive environment for nurturing talent, contrasting it with the pressures of larger football markets. One of Wenger’s most vivid memories was his debut match as Monaco coach, a decisive victory over Marseille in front of a packed stadium, which he described as a moment that set the tone for his time with the club.
In his closing remarks, Wenger expressed deep gratitude to the Monaco fans and the club for giving him the platform to launch his career. He thanked supporters for their unwavering loyalty and wished the club continued success in the years ahead. The centennial celebration served as a poignant reminder of Wenger’s impact on AS Monaco and the enduring legacy of his time with the club.
