Valy Konaté has officially joined Belgian top-flight side Cercle Bruges on a season-long loan from AS Monaco, marking the next step in the young Ivorian’s professional journey.
The 18-year-old left-back, who arrived at Monaco during the winter transfer window, will spend the 2025–26 campaign in the Jupiler Pro League as he continues his development away from the Principality.
Cercle Bruges confirmed the deal through an official club statement, expressing their enthusiasm at securing the services of a player widely regarded as one of West Africa’s emerging defensive talents.
A native of Bouaké, Konaté began his career with Racing Club d’Abidjan before attracting the attention of Monaco’s scouts. Though still in the early stages of his European career, his performances have impressed Monaco’s technical staff, who see the loan move to Belgium as a valuable opportunity for him to gain consistent first-team experience.
Speaking to Cercle Bruges’ official website, Konaté expressed his excitement at the move and his eagerness to contribute to the club’s ambitions.
“I’m very happy to be playing for Cercle this season,” he said. “It’s a great honour to be part of such an ambitious team. I look forward to giving my all on the pitch and helping the club achieve its goals.”
Cercle Bruges, who narrowly escaped relegation last season, have set their sights on climbing the table and challenging for higher positions in the Belgian league.
The club’s management believes Konaté’s addition will provide depth and energy to the squad’s defensive options as they aim for a stronger showing in the new campaign.
Monaco, meanwhile, will be keeping a close eye on their young defender’s progress. Konaté remains under contract with the Ligue 1 side until June 2029, and the decision to loan him out reflects their long-term investment in his development.
Although he has yet to make a senior appearance for Monaco, the club clearly sees potential in the Ivorian and is eager to see how he adapts to the demands of senior football in Belgium.
Konaté’s arrival at Cercle is also a testament to the growing trend of young African talents being nurtured through strategic loans to competitive European leagues.
The Belgian top division, known for offering valuable minutes to emerging players, provides a fitting stage for the left-back to showcase his abilities against quality opposition.
Though he does not currently have an official market valuation, Konaté’s profile could rise significantly with regular playing time and strong performances in the Jupiler Pro League.
His physical attributes, combined with a growing tactical awareness, are qualities that Monaco will hope are sharpened during his loan spell.
For now, Konaté begins a fresh chapter in Belgium with determination and optimism. As Cercle Bruges prepare for the season ahead, all eyes will be on how the young Ivorian adapts to his new environment and seizes the opportunity to prove himself at the senior level.
