Two more Portuguese footballers have signed on the dotted line for Monaco. Real Madrid left-back Fábio Coentrão penned a one-season loan, while Marcos ‘Rony’ Lopes has made a permanent move from Manchester City to the French Ligue 1 club.
Coached by former Sporting manager Leonardo Jardim, Monaco’s playing squad now has seven Portuguese members.
As well as experienced internationals João Moutinho, Ricardo Carvalho and now Coentrão, the club has followed a policy of signing some of the Seleção's most promising talents. Lopes joins Bernardo Silva, Ivan Cavaleiro and Hélder Costa in the principality.
Under-21 international Rony Lopes is one of the most exciting emerging talents of the Portuguese game, and many at Manchester City had high hopes he would play a part in the club’s future. However, the Citizens’ thirst for the game’s major trophies means there are no opportunities for their young players, with the Premier League club opting to buy the finished product. With the impending signing of Kevin de Bruyne further blocking his path to the first team in Manchester, Lopes has made the decision to pursue his career elsewhere.
Eager to get going
“Thank you Monaco for the wonderful welcome and for believing in me! I’m honoured and eager to work hard!!” said Lopes yesterday, through his Twitter account. The 19-year-old, who had a successful loan period at fellow Ligue 1 side Lille last season, has signed a 5-year contract.
Thank you @AS_Monaco for the wonderful welcome and for believing in me! I'm honoured and eager to work hard!! pic.twitter.com/Fyzq7Q40kS
Fábio Coentrão also expressed his delight at making the switch to the Stade Louis II. “It’s a pleasure to be here and to represent this club,” said the Portugal defender upon his presentation.
Competing with Brazilian full-back Marcelo for a starting spot at Real Madrid, Coentrão never quite nailed down his place in the first XI, in spite of a number of excellent displays in the famous white shirt.
With 100 appearances for the Spanish giants and 50 caps for Portugal, there is no doubting the former Benfica left-back’s pedigree, but the 27-year-old will be keen to overcome a series of injury problems that has held back his career in recent years.
“Fábio Coentrão is a very experienced player and could have a great season with us,” said coach Jardim.
By Tom Kundert
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