Wilfried 'Chokbar' Singo: Monaco's technical colossus

With Monaco facing Paris Saint-Germain this evening, we take a look at one of the most dominant yet technical defenders in Ligue 1: Wilfried Singo.

A domineering frame, yet a technical talent on the ball. When Wilfred Singo comes to mind, one can still visualise the  scooped skill-move against Paris Saint-Germain that went viral on social media - leading to his legendary nickname: "Chokbar".

The Ivorian defender seems to defy expectations with a physical frame at 190cm tall, but as good a talent with his feet as any other outfield player. The Chokbar struck in the Champions League against Red Star Belgrade with a stunning 35-yard screamer, following another mesmerising run against Le Havre in Ligue 1 past four defenders. Singo has the knack for flairy moments. “It just comes to me. I don’t even practice these moves in training,” he revealed after Monaco’s recent Champions League win at Bologna. Instinctive.

Born in Ivory Coast, Singo’s first big opportunity came with trials for an Espanyol Barcelona academy affiliate in Algeria. There, his versatility shone—capable of playing any position except goalkeeper. Albert Saus Torras, Espanyol’s international partnerships director, recalls “He was stronger, faster, and better than players even older than him. His heading ability was unparalleled.”

WATCH: Singo's iconic 'Chokbar 'moment

Yet he would be unable to make his dream move to Spain. After his return to Ivory Coast he would eventually get snapped up by Serie A side Torino. In Italy he flourished as a dynamic wing-back under Ivan Jurić - before signing for Monaco in the summer of 2023. Though Singo has shined in various positions—wing-back, central defense, and even midfield—his current role under Monaco’s Adi Hütter might be his best yet. “He was undoubtedly our best defender last season,” says Hütter. “He’s exceptional in aerial duels but must focus on consistency. Sometimes, he makes it look too easy.”

Patrice Beaumelle told L'Équipe that he has a similar flexibility to former Stade Rennais star Edouardo Camavinga. "Singo’s vision and skills could make him an excellent midfielder, but his current position in defense suits him. He can dribble, dominate the air, and play with finesse—a unique combination.”

As Les Monégasques face Paris Saint-Germain this evening (21:00 CET), we'll have to see if the 'Chokbar' can strike again against the capital side.

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