We will be far from the neighbors’ party this Sunday evening at the Allianz Riviera. But at least the Gym joined ASM on the same floor on Wednesday by going to win in Lille while Monaco lost ground against Troyes (2-4). Five points each, relegation rhythm after five days for these two ambitious people who will begin their European campaign next Thursday.
A Cracked Rock in August
Until then, this Côte d’Azur derby should make it possible to see more clearly the potential of these two teams disturbed by their summer. Monaco definitely does not like the preliminaries and was knocked out of the Champions League before he could even hear the little music. An early elimination which has not yet been digested since ASM has not won in Ligue 1 since the fatal defeat in Eindhoven. And conceded at least one goal per game since the start of the season.
Not yet custard in Nice
A few kilometers from Le Rocher, we are far from the Promenade des Anglais at the start of the season. Nice is going through a growth crisis and the takeover of the British Dave Brailsford and Iain Moody is slow to show its effects on the ground. At least in terms of results. Because the transfer window has their mark on both of them and the connection with the Premier League is obvious. And sustainable? Jean-Pierre Rivère the president hopes to continue the collaboration with Moody, even if a General Manager (Fabrice Bocquet) and a Sports Director will arrive.
Laborde and Diop already on the bridge
While waiting to structure itself, the Gym must collect. With its workforce finally complete. Three rookies signed after Lille win and are already in the squad to face Monaco. Bech Sorensen, Bryan and Laborde will provide solutions behind and in front of Lucien Favre, who can also count on the biggest rookie of the summer Sofiane Diop, recovered from groin discomfort since his arrival from … Monaco. When we know that Pépé opened his red and black counter against his former club on Wednesday in Lille, we really want to see the young attacking midfielder on the lawn of the Allianz Riviera. In contrast no Billal Brahimi, who pays for the new offensive competition.