Caio Henrique dropped with AS Monaco ‘not satisfied’ with Brazil international | OneFootball

Prior to his ACL injury towards the start of last season, Caio Henrique (27) was one of AS Monaco’s most valuable assets. On the fringes of the Brazil set-up, the left-back was also key for the Principality club going forward, registering four assists in the first six games of the Ligue 1 season.

Then came the ACL injury, which ruled him out for much of the campaign. He only returned for the final three games of the domestic campaign but, with a whole pre-season under his belt, there was hope that the Brazilian would reach his former heights.

Henrique ‘not happy’ with the situation

However, that is yet to happen. Henrique has struggled for form, failing to bring the same dynamism going forward (one assist in 21 appearances in all competitions this season), the former Atletico Madrid man, brought through as a No.10, remains fragile defensively.

Responding to a question from Get French Football News, Monaco manager Adi Hütter says that there is no hiding behind the excuse of match fitness. “Physically, he is one of our best players. He is very fast. It is over one year ago that he suffered his injury,” said Hütter.

Often straight-speaking, Hütter expressed his dissatisfaction with the Brazil international’s performances this season. “We cannot accept players with high quality not being at the level. I think, when you reflect, he is not happy (with the situation), and not satisfied, and we have the same feeling. Our job is to bring every player back to his best shape,” he said.

Mawissa steals a march

In the meantime, Henrique will have to win back his place in the line-up. He has been dropped for Monaco’s match against Stade Rennais on Saturday, despite being present in a training session, attended by Get French Football News on Friday. Not linked to injury, his absence represents a demotion.

“There is always competition for positions,” said Hütter. And it seems that, for the left-back spot, Henrique may have dropped to third place in the pecking order. Christian Mawissa, signed from Toulouse FC in the summer, was brought in as a centre-back, however, the 19-year-old has excelled when asked to play at left-back; he was once again solid in this position during the midweek win over Aston Villa. 20-year-old Kassoum Ouattara has also featured more prominently this season.

It is now up to Henrique to rediscover his form and regain his place in the Principality club’s plans.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle