Football in Monaco has taken an unexpected turn with the arrival of Monaco United Football Club, a new team helmed by former AS Monaco striker Marco Simone. With a sharp focus on elevating women’s football, the club’s launch signals the beginning of a long-term project to establish a high-level institution rooted firmly in the Principality. This fresh venture promises to reshape the local sporting landscape, placing the women’s squad at its very heart.
Marco Simone, whose professional career includes spells with AS Monaco, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, described the launch as a deeply personal project. “Monaco gave me so much. Today, I want to give back,” he said. “This club is built on a vision of the future, shaped by what I’ve seen and experienced—especially in the world of women’s football, which deserves far greater investment and recognition.”
Speaking symbolically from the same spot where he once signed as a player with AS Monaco 25 years ago, Simone now returns as President of Monaco United Football Club, determined to forge a new path rooted in excellence, inclusivity, and opportunity.
The women’s team: ambition from day one
At the heart of the club is the Monaco United Women’s Team, which will make its debut in the French championship this September. The club’s leadership has made clear that the women’s team is not an add-on—but the cornerstone of its vision. With professional structures, international scouting, and top-tier infrastructure, the goal is to elevate Monaco onto the national and European stage.
“This is a long-term project,” said Morris Pagniello, founder of Racing City Group, the club’s main partner. “We’re not here to compete with anyone—we’re here to contribute something new. Our dream is to one day see Monaco United in the Champions League.”
Recruitment is underway to build a competitive, internationally diverse squad, with players expected from France, Italy, Spain, Latin America and Africa. The project also includes a men’s section and a youth programme, with each team aligned with the club’s broader identity and values.
Monaco United Academy: training future champions
Central to the club’s mission is the Monaco United Academy, open to young players aged 14 to 23. Designed to develop future professionals in both women’s and men’s football, the academy offers tailored education alongside elite athletic training. It is supported by Adil Rami, 2018 FIFA World Cup winner, who has been named the academy’s official ambassador and will also make appearances for the Monaco United men’s team.
“Supporting the next generation is the most important investment we can make,” said Simone. “The academy reflects that commitment, both on and off the pitch.”
Rooted locally, reaching globally
Monaco United’s home ground will be the Stade Didier Deschamps in Cap d’Ail, directly across from Stade Louis II. The location grounds the club in the local sporting landscape while asserting a distinct identity and long-term vision.
With infrastructure, international partnerships and media strategy all part of its launch plan, Monaco United is positioning itself as a model for a modern, inclusive football club.
An official launch event is scheduled for late August, where full details will be revealed, including the team’s division, full player roster, technical staff, and ways for supporters to get involved.
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