AS Monaco coach backs Krépin Diatta and Lamine Camara amid AFCON 2025 controversy

AS Monaco coach Sébastien Pocognoli continues to back Krépin Diatta and Lamine Camara as champions despite the CAF awarding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title to Morocco.

Ahead of Monaco’s Ligue 1 trip to Olympique Lyonnais, Pocognoli insisted that the players’ sporting achievements remain intact. “ For me, they remain my champions. I think Krepin and Lamine are in the same mindset,” he said.

The Belgian coach emphasized that the administrative verdict does not diminish the hard work, skill, and dedication shown by the two Senegalese internationals.

“ For them, they are champions. Anything outside of that context is beyond our control. But it hasn’t affected them too much. Regardless of the outcome, we’ll always have to discuss the why and the how. They had to play those matches, they had to win them.

We are very proud of what they have accomplished. The final outcome of this achievement is irrelevant. In the end, it’s the sporting feeling that prevails. As long as they remain focused on AS Monaco in relation to all of this, that’s the most important thing,” Pocognoli added.

The coach’s remarks highlight his commitment to acknowledging player effort and preserving morale, especially amid controversy over CAF’s decision.

While the African governing body reassigned the trophy, Pocognoli stressed that official rulings should not overshadow the tangible performances on the field.

Diatta and Camara have continued to perform for Monaco despite the off-field debate, maintaining focus on Ligue 1 fixtures and the club’s objectives.

Pocognoli underscored the importance of separating administrative decisions from sporting accomplishments, ensuring that both players feel valued and motivated.

As the season progresses, the AS Monaco coach remains firm in his stance: while CAF’s verdict is final, the on-field contributions of Diatta and Camara are what truly define champions.