ligue1-logo
One To Watch

Paris Brunner: ready to step into the spotlight for Monaco?

Having struggled for minutes last season, Paris Brunner is making arguments to be more involved at AS Monaco ahead of the coming Ligue 1 McDonald's season.
L. ENTWISTLE
Published on 07/22/2026 at 09:00
3-minute read
Brunner in action with Monaco in pre-season

Having struggled for minutes last season, Paris Brunner is making arguments to be more involved at AS Monaco ahead of the coming Ligue 1 McDonald's season.

On the scoresheet against St-Priest

Seven appearances, one start, on goal contributions: that was Brunner's record for Monaco in all competitions last season. Under Adi Hutter and then Sébastien Pocognoli, the German, signed from Borussia Dortmund two summers ago, struggled to alter the hierarchy. 

Whilst Mika Biereth struggled to recapture his form from the previous season, Folarin Balogun was the go-to man at the Stade Louis II. The USMNT forward's performances ensured that Brunner struggled to get a sniff following his return from a season-long loan at Cercle Brugge. 

The Germany U20 international, who never made a first-team appearance for formative club Borussia Dortmund, is now trying to impress a new manager: Filipe Luis. The Brazilian, praised for his work at former club Flamengo, was officially unveiled earlier this month. 

And for the first time, he took charge of his side in a pre-season friendly, against Saint-Priest, at La Turbie on Saturday. 

With Balogun yet to return from international duty, Brunner got his chance. As is customary in pre-season, Filipe Luis played two different sides, with both lining up in a 4-2-3-1. 

Versatility a string to Brunner's bow

In the first half, it was Biereth who led the line, but Brunner came on at the break and didn't waste any time in making an impression on the new manager. He netted twice in a matter of seconds (48', 49'). The German's second goal was particularly impressive as he beat his man on the left, came inside and curled an effort into the far corner. 

Les Monégasques would go on to win 5-2 in their first pre-season friendly, and Brunner, in the absence of some star players, still absent due to the World Cup, certainly scored some points. 

Whilst Filipe Luis only plays with one striker, there are plenty of games for ASM this season, and Brunner also has versatility on his side. A versatile forward, there is the possibility for the German to play on the wing. Should Monaco also qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League proper, with the qualification round coming in August, there would also be the chance for Brunner to impress on Thursday nights in Europe. 

Highly rated when coming through the ranks at one of Europe's best academies in Dortmund, Brunner will now look to deliver on the promise that he has shown at youth level and make an impact in a side that will be pushing to ensure Champions League qualification next season.

READ MORE

>> Who is new Paris FC signing Diego Coppola?

>> Başar Önal continues LOSC's proud Turkish tradition

>> Rémi Himbert: Meet Lyon's hat trick hero

>> Ligue 2 BKT transfer window: How clubs are building for 2026/27

ligue1-logo