Monaco players celebrate after their 2-1 win against PSG at the Parc des Princes. Photograph: Yoan Valat/EPA. The French club have retained their top scorer from last season, Folarin Balogun, and are top of Ligue 1, but at what cost? They agreed and then reneged on a deal to sell Lamine Camara to Chelsea, only to see the midfielder become their best player so far this season.
Monaco's manager, Filipe Luís, says a big move will come for Camara, who has been "unbelievable" and "elite" this season. The 22-year-old Senegal international has been instrumental in the team's 100% record, and Luís believes that if he maintains his level, "all the big clubs will come for him". Monaco's CEO, Thiago Scuro, has hinted that there will be "even better options and offers" in the future for Camara, suggesting that an eventual departure is expected.
Monaco's decision to retain Camara and Balogun has been seen as a priority for the club's sporting prerogatives, but it has also left them with a lack of midfield cover and no recognised right-winger. Luís has expressed his concerns about the squad's balance, but the reasons for their despondency are also the reasons they can now harbour greater ambitions for the season. With Camara set to return to the team after the international break, Monaco will be looking to build on their impressive start to the season.