AS Monaco GM Oleksiy Yefimov Outlines Vision for Sustainable Growth and Higher Ambition

In a candid interview, Oleksiy Yefimov, General Manager of AS Monaco, articulated his overarching vision for the club's future: to elevate Monaco to an even higher level, built upon more robust and lasting foundations.

On Coach Vassilis Spanoulis's Departure:

Yefimov began by expressing deep gratitude to Coach Vassilis Spanoulis, praising him not only as a coach but as a true leader. He credited Spanoulis with guiding Monaco to its inaugural Euroleague final in Abu Dhabi, securing the first French Supercup, and reclaiming the Leaders Cup after an eight-year hiatus. Beyond the court, Yefimov acknowledged Spanoulis's inspirational presence within the club, admitting to significant personal learning from their collaboration. While regretting that their journey together had to conclude, he underscored that circumstances sometimes necessitate difficult decisions, confident that Spanoulis departs with positive memories and widespread respect.

On Team Cohesion and Player Commitment:

Addressing the players' engagement, Yefimov emphasized that their true commitment is vividly demonstrated on the court. He highlighted the "incredible unity and fighting spirit" against Olympiakos, and the "true character" displayed in Istanbul versus Efes and at home against Milan. These moments, he stated, are what forge a team's history. He pointed to late-game turnarounds as perfect examples of team cohesion, showcasing a readiness to fight and sacrifice for each other and for the Monaco name. Yefimov also noted off-court unity, citing Mike James's active support on Twitter during a Milan game, underscoring a palpable sense of togetherness despite challenging circumstances and injuries.

On Monaco's Current State and Future Stability:

Yefimov described current challenges as a test that ultimately fortifies strong projects, bringing clarity and harmony among all participants. He affirmed a collective dedication to maintaining Monaco at its elite level and elevating it further on more solid and sustainable ground. He extended gratitude to the Principality of Monaco for its crucial financial and institutional backing, which provides essential security and enables structural consolidation and long-term viability. Yefimov concluded this point by reiterating the club's DNA of surmounting past difficulties and its unwavering ambition to surpass itself.

Looking Ahead: The Arena and Strategic Partnerships:

The next phase, according to Yefimov, focuses on long-term structure and value, with the arena project as a pivotal element. Previously on hold, the arena is now a top priority with a clear roadmap. Active discussions are underway to evaluate options and select the right partners, with significant progress expected before summer. Yefimov stressed that the emphasis is on securing suitable partners and a robust structure for sustained success, rather than merely rushing the process. He asserted that Monaco is entering this new phase from a position of strength, with a clear vision and a defined roadmap aimed at achieving a higher, more sustainable future for the club.

On Building the Next Squad:

Regarding the upcoming squad, Yefimov expressed a strong preference for dedicating all available resources to retain the current roster—the team that began the season. He lauded their dedication, faith, and talent, noting their resilience in both victory and defeat. He highlighted Monaco's consistent playoff appearances in the Euroleague since joining and the successful strategy of building and maintaining a strong, loyal core. Referencing Euroleague history, Yefimov underscored that continuity and regularity are fundamental ingredients for crafting championship-winning teams.