Season Preview
Strikers
This years campaign starts off with a strike for led by Patrick Kluivert (99), last years top Monaco scorer Victor Ikpea-Nosa (95), new pick up Jose Mari Mari (93), last season youth phenom David Trezeguet (93), and on loan to gain valuable playing time Theirry Henry (91). These 5 strikers form a dangerous group. Look for Kluivert to pair with Trezeguet, and Nosa to pair with Mari Mari. These will be the two pairings for Monaco as we play through the Division, Beckenbauer Tourney, and Cryuff Cup.
Midfield
The midfield is the same group that finished the season from last year. We have a great mix of talented youth and crafty productive veterans. The LM position is a lock for the most explosive and talented LM in the game. Juan Mihalovic (99) is the top LM in the world. He gives Monaco an advantage in every match at his position, whether he is scoring goals or shutting down the opponets flank. The RM position is held by Iosif Rotariu (88), a highly gifted youngster who is on the up. He did a fabulous job last season for Monaco and will be a vital piece to the midfield. The CM is headed up by Josip Gaspar (97) and his CM mate Miguel Bingle (95). They both form a solid and very productive CM tandem. Ali Benarbi (94) and Silvio Maric (92) provide quality cover and the ability to lead and score. Benarbi scored 6 goals last season.
Defenders
The Monaco defense was the key to last seasons Division 2 championship. The undoubted leader and soul of the Defense is CD Martin Djetou (98). Djetou had a fabulous season last year and was rated in the top 17 overall players in the game, awared MOM honors 7 times. He is partnered by late season pick up CD Lilian Thuram (99). A move made by Monaco in anticipation of promotion. Dieter Yugo (92) played a key role in Monaco's great defense last season, as he will see plenty of action this season. Stephen Thorpe (90) is the other young talented CD that Monaco has on its roster. Djibril Diawara (89) is Monaco's 5th CD and excellent cover incase of injury. The LD spot is held down by Serge Blanc (99). Picked up in a deal with Leeds, he has given Monaco a rock on the left side. Blanc is backed up by youngster Salahadine Gledhill (89), who when given the chance always shines. The RD spot is occupied by crafty warrior Philipe Leonard (92), who is always solid with his pace, and occasional scoring touch. Jon Arne-Riise (85) is the young RD back up.
Keepers
This is Jean Arnaud's (96) team. Hands down. The young French International has a firm grip on the #1 jersey. Arnaud overcame some early season jitters to make Barthez expendable. He is looking to have a great season. Monaco faithfull were in a state of shock with the swap of local hero and frequenter of many taverns, Fabien Barthez for young striker Jose Mari Mari. Rich Thomas said he had a plan to find a replacement. At first it was rumored that a deal was being struck for Chilavert, then a flurry of deals hit Monaco, and lots of players came and went. Monaco was able to get the services of young French stopper Sebastian Frey (91). He is the substitute that we want.
Youth Team/Reserves
Monaco has 3 fast rising stars in their youth side. CD Gerard Thomas (81), CM Isaac Joshua (80), and ST Ranan (81). We feel these 3 players will be fundamental in success of the youth side. We might see anyone of them in the senior side towards the end of the season. It is hoped that either Johan Millier (78) or Julien Riou (77)can improve enough to move to the senior team at RM as soon as possible. They have the most realistic chance due to the lack of a quality RM cover to move to the senior side. There are many hungry youngsters in this side which looks to create some excitement.