Two clean sheets in the last four matches…including the one against Paris SG (0-0). In recent weeks, AS Monaco has appeared (a little) more solid defensively in recent weeks, or let’s say rather that it is more successful in keeping its clean sheets. And one of the obvious reasons for this progression is none other than the change in hierarchy at the goalkeeper position. Indeed, at the end of February, Adi Hütter decided to trust Radoslaw Majecki instead of Philipp Köhn, the starter in goal since the start of the season. A profitable choice, so far. Moreover, the Polish goalkeeper should once again be lined up this Saturday afternoon (5 p.m.), during the trip to the FC Metz pitch, as part of the 27th day of Ligue 1.
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In the first part of the season, Radoslaw Majecki, who arrived on the Rock in the winter of 2020 from Legia Warsaw for a check for €7 million, had to chomp at the bit: no minutes played in all competitions. “At the start of the season I had a conversation with the coach, like every player. So we talked about the role of number 1, and the hierarchy was clear, explained the 24-year-old goalkeeper at a press conference. But he also made me understand that things could change at any time. So I was able to earn my place after good performances, and the group accepted it.
Fortunately for him, the Coupe de France, at the start of 2024, allowed him to show himself. And in particular the 5th round match against RC Lens during which he was decisive during the penalty shootout (2-2, 7-8 after tab). “It was indeed very important for all of us, and for myself, to have good matches in the Coupe de France. Personally, I had prepared the match against Lens for six months in order to be ready on the big day when the coach was going to call on me,” recalled the Pole who had the feeling deep down that he deserved “to play”. He subsequently played two other matches in the same competition, against Rodez AF (1-3) then against FC Rouen 1899 (1-1, 7-6 after tab) against whom he distinguished himself again on the penalty shootout despite his team’s defeat.
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His good performances in the Coupe de France and in training, combined with the mixed performances of number one Philipp Köhn, opened the doors to his first start in Ligue 1 against RC Lens on February 25 (2-3) . This change in hierarchy was rather difficult: “First of all, I must say that we had to make a decision which was not easy. We spoke a lot with Philipp Köhn, who understood our point of view, especially as Radeck was gaining strength in training, also in contact with Yann Lienard who is also a very good goalkeeper,” indicated Adi Hütter in front of the journalists during the week.
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Radoslaw Majecki took advantage of this great opportunity. He put in a great performance and has not left the Monaco cages since. “Radoslaw has a big personality, a great attitude on the pitch, and he is very communicative. He’s doing a fantastic job and has helped us a lot recently,” stressed the coach of the Rocher club. His partners feel this attitude. At least that’s what the person concerned says. “Honestly I have felt good since the start of the season, I have this energy in me which means that I always give 100%. So I’m happy that my teammates feel this energy and I want it to continue like this,” he assured this Thursday. Will he confirm his good form? Answer this Saturday afternoon.
