Maghnes Akliouche has once again proved he is one of the rising talents in Ligue 1, having scored in successive victories for Monaco against FC Metz (5-2) and Rennes (1-0). We take a look at the 22-year-old's journey to Ligue 1 Uber Eats and his growing importance for Adi Hütter's side
After starting his first match of the season against Olympique de Marseille in September, young attacking midfielder Maghnes Akliouche has grown in confidence and importance for Adi Hütter's Monaco side this season. After 23 Ligue 1 matches, the 22-year-old has now scored seven goals and contributed three assists.
From Paris to the Principality…
A left-footed attacking midfielder who is as versatile as he is tricky, Akliouche has truly burst onto the scene with Les Monégasques. The Paris-born playmaker played his youth football, like many, in the suburbs of the French capital - before signing for Monaco's academy in 2017.
The Marvellous Maghnes
Akliouche was handed his debut for the club by Nico Kovac at the age of 19 in a defeat to Olympique Lyonnais (2-0) back in October 2021. Since then, his rise has been gradual, but this season he has become a popular figure at the principality club. A brace and an assist in his first start of the season against OM (3-2) helped to endear him to the Monégasuqe faithful.
Adi Hütter 'delighted' with Akliouche's development
He has already played over double the amount of appearances than he did last season, a sign of Hütter's trust in the Frenchman. The 21-year-old has been selected six times for France’s U21 side and scored his first goal for Les Bleuets in a 9-goal rout of Cyprus in October.
"I'm delighted with his development," said manager Adi Hütter after this weekend's win against Rennes (1-0)."He's having a fantastic season as a young player. We mustn't forget that this is only his second season in Ligue 1. As soon as I arrived, I saw his talent straight away. Perhaps before, he lacked aggression in duels and wasn't decisive enough. Today, he has seven goals and three assists. I'm delighted with his performances"
THE STAT
After his goal against FC Metz two weeks ago Akliouche became the fourth player born in 2002 or later to reach the 6-goal mark in Ligue 1 this season (after Kalimuendo, Elye Wahi and Emegha, according to Opta), stiff competition in that generation...
