Ligue 1: Monaco sack coach Pocognoli

Monaco's Belgian head coach Sebastien Pocognoli looks on prior to the French L1 football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and AS Monaco at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on March 6, 2026. AS Monaco announced on June 1, 2026, that it had terminated the contract of Belgian coach Sébastien Pocognoli, who had been in charge since October 2025.

French club Monaco on Monday confirmed that Belgian coach Sebastien Pocognoli has been sacked after just under eight months in the job. Pocognoli had one more year left on his contract but paid for a seventh-place Ligue 1 finish which saw the club miss out on Champions League football next season. Monaco secured a spot in the UEFA Conference League play-offs. “AS Monaco announces the end of its collaboration with Sebastien Pocognoli at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season,” the club said in a statement. Pocognoli, 38, joined Monaco last October from Union Saint-Gilloise in place of Adi Hutter. Related News Bielsa defends Suarez World Cup snub, says no apology needed EPL: Man United’s Lammens named Premier League signing of the season Carlo Ancelotti’s son named new Lille coach After a difficult start to the season, the former Belgium international led Monaco into contention for a top-three finish with a 10-match unbeaten run. However, a poor end to the campaign cost them a shot at Champions League qualification. Pocognoli leaves the club along with his two assistants, Kevin Mirallas and Artur Kopyt. Three other staff members had been dismissed in recent days. According to several media reports, ex-Chelsea and Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis is favourite to take over. The 40-year-old left Flamengo in March, having won the Copa Libertadores last year with the Brazilian club. AFP Gilbert Ekugbe Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.

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