Sebastien Pocognoli has taken over the reins at AS Monaco with the ambition to make an impact reminiscent of his former coach, Louis van Gaal. The 38-year-old Belgian, who was appointed after the dismissal of Adi Huetter, aims to revitalize a Monaco side that has underperformed in the early stages of the 2025-26 season. Under Huetter, Monaco had only won one of their last five matches, with heavy defeats to Club Brugge in the Champions League and a surprise loss to newly-promoted Lorient. Pocognoli, who made his coaching debut with Union Saint-Gilloise last season, brings a fresh approach and energy to a talented Monaco squad.
Pocognoli’s coaching philosophy draws heavily from his time under Van Gaal at AZ Alkmaar, where the team clinched the Dutch title in 2009. Reflecting on his experiences with the legendary coach, Pocognoli emphasized the significant role a coach can play in shaping the development of players. “A coach can really have an impact on the development of players,” Pocognoli said, underscoring his commitment to bringing a similar influence to Monaco.
While Pocognoli is a relative newcomer to the managerial scene, having led Union Saint-Gilloise to their first Belgian title in 90 years, his decision to join Monaco reflects his ambition to take on a bigger challenge. Despite the allure of continuing his Champions League journey with Union, Pocognoli signed a contract with Monaco that will keep him at the club until 2027. He is supported by former Everton and Belgium striker Kevin Mirallas, who joins as his assistant.
Monaco boasts an impressive roster, including rising talents like Maghnes Akliouche, Takumi Minamino, Eric Dier, and Ansu Fati, who has made an immediate impact since joining on loan from Barcelona. The team also looks forward to the return of Paul Pogba, who is recovering from a lengthy injury and doping ban. Although Pogba won’t be ready for at least another two weeks, his eventual return could provide a significant boost to the squad.
Pocognoli’s first test will come against Angers, with his debut in charge set for Saturday. The team will then shift focus to their Champions League campaign, where they will host Tottenham Hotspur next Wednesday. Despite their rocky start, Monaco is currently just three points behind league leaders PSG, and Pocognoli remains confident that he can turn things around and guide the team back to the top of Ligue 1.
