Reaction: Pocognoli reflects on first AS Monaco defeat

AS Monaco manager Sébastien Pocognoli cut a disappointed figure after suffering his first defeat in charge, lamenting his team’s inability to make their dominance count.

The Monaco boss watched his side create several presentable chances but fail to convert, while Paris FC capitalised on their only shot on target, which came after ASM carelessly turned over possession. Speaking post-match, Pocognoli addressed a range of topics, from his side’s lack of clinical edge to the lessons that must be extracted from the loss.

Setback

Reflecting on the beating, Pocognoli didn’t mask his frustration but maintained a sense of perspective, insisting that setbacks like this are part of the team’s growth under his leadership.

“Yes, it’s very clear, I wasn’t expecting it. It’s certainly part of the learning process, going through these kinds of moments. We learn a lot from this match, even though it’s tough because we’re at home. We didn’t offer much. I only remember one nice team move finished by Krépin in the first half, but it was too rare, not enough,” he commented.

“Beyond the three points, our performance wasn’t enough. Against Toulouse, it wasn’t exactly dazzling either, but we did create some chances. Now, I’m going to learn from this defeat and see how we react because we have an important match on Tuesday against Bodø/Glimt.”

Lacking ideas

The Monaco coach also reflected on the way his side faded after a promising start, noting that intensity and character waned as the contest wore on.

“I think we started well, with intensity and a clear vision of what we wanted to do. We were also present in the duels, but we gradually ran out of steam. We lacked too many elements, like leadership; there wasn’t enough fighting spirit, we lacked a bit of fire,” he told the media.

“It might be due to physical factors, but Paris also played on Wednesday. In the second half, I gave some players the opportunity to get some minutes. These changes were made from both a tactical and physical perspective. Unfortunately, they didn’t have the same impact, unlike in recent matches.”

No excuses

Pocognoli refused to hide behind excuses, admitting that his side were simply second-best on the night and praised Paris FC, stating: “I don’t want to make excuses. As I said, I wasn’t expecting it because the team spirit was good. Naturally, it’s easier to recover after a win like the one we had in Nantes. Yesterday’s training session was conducted with discipline and focus for this match. Paris played the game they had planned away from home, with maturity, unlike us. They deserved their victory; we didn’t do what was necessary to make them doubt themselves.”

Ouattara’s substitution

Asked about the decision to withdraw Kassoum Ouattara at half-time, Pocognoli explained that the change was made for physical and tactical reasons rather than due to performance.

“It was a purely physical decision. There were already questions before the match because we don’t have a lot of depth in that position. His substitution was necessary even though he was playing well. Given how the game was unfolding, we wanted to find more attacking impetus and more depth. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to fully implement what we wanted to do,” admitted the 39-year-old.

Energy

When quizzed on whether he felt less combative or emotionally engaged during the match, he dismissed the idea, emphasising that his concentration was on reading the game and understanding his players’ reactions.

“No, I wasn’t less combative, even though I give a lot of energy every day. As I said, I also need a two-way street, and today there was a lack of fire on the pitch and less fighting spirit. I was also expecting a bit more responsibility on the field, but I’m learning from my teammates. I didn’t feel any more tired than in any other match. Let’s just say I was more focused on analysis, observing attitudes and body language,” he asserted.

No distractions

Pocognoli downplayed suggestions that his players were distracted by their upcoming European fixture, instead urging focus and resilience as Monaco enter a key period before the international break.

“I honestly don’t think so. They may have dropped off physically and mentally, but I don’t think they had the Champions League match on their minds. I’m hopeful that we can quickly turn things around, like we did when I arrived, against Tottenham and Nantes, where we played consistently well,” he acknowledged.

“My role is to push and support them in this final stretch before the international break and to give everything in the last two matches. We have an important game against Bodø, crucial in terms of points, before we need to offer more and be more consistent in our attitude towards our fans against Lens. We’ll still need to manage our physical condition and be smart in our tactical choices while giving them one last boost. We know the situation, but I’m optimistic.”

Champions League clash

After this disappointing result, a strong reaction against Bodø/Glimt would be the ideal way for Monaco to get back on track and secure a much-needed first Champions League win of the season.