Monaco and Le Havre Open Ligue 1 Season Amid High Hopes

MONACO, Monaco — The Ligue 1 season kicks off this weekend as AS Monaco takes on Le Havre AC at the Stade Louis-II on Saturday. Monaco, a strong contender last season, is aiming to reclaim the top spot after finishing just behind Paris Saint-Germain in the title race.

Le Havre barely avoided relegation last season, finishing just one point above the drop zone. They come into the match with hopes of starting the new campaign on a positive note. Coach Luka Elsner’s team, known as Le Club Doyen, managed to survive relegation by winning its final match of the season.

Monaco has made notable additions in the transfer market, including the return of World Cup winner Paul Pogba, who has not played a competitive match since September 2023 due to a suspension for drug-related issues. Adi Hutter‘s side has also signed young talent Ansu Fati on loan from Barcelona and brought in defender Eric Dier as a free agent.

“We are excited about the new season and the players we have brought in,” Hutter said in a pre-match press conference. “Pogba’s experience will be invaluable, and adding Fati gives us more depth in attack.”

In contrast, Le Havre has not spent any money this transfer window but is expected to introduce nine new players, most of whom will be making their Ligue 1 debuts on Saturday. Coach Luka Elsner expressed optimism about challenging Monaco despite their lack of big signings.

“We have a disciplined squad and a clear game plan,” Elsner said. “Facing a strong Monaco side is a challenge, but we are ready to start the season with a competitive spirit.”

The match will be streamed live on beIN SPORTS and is expected to draw significant attention as both teams look to set a positive tone for the season ahead.

As the anticipation builds, fans are eager to see if Monaco can live up to their high expectations and if Le Havre can overcome the odds against a formidable opponent.