There are press releases that fall as evidence. And others which, in a few words, give birth to a thousand speculation. This Tuesday, AS Monaco published an official Message heavy with meaning, in a context where the name of Paul Pogba circulates insistence around the club. While the rumor of an imminent signature of the old Turin ignites the principality, the club of the rock has indeed formalized … something. But not yet what everyone expected.
Because no, it is not (yet) confirmation of the arrival of Pogba, nor that of Spanish Ansu Fati, also expected in the coming hours. The press release concerns an announcement of another order: an unprecedented strategic partnership between AS Monaco and the Ministry of Sports of the Democratic Republic of Congo, baptized “Rdcongo, heart of Africa”. An agreement that runs until 2028 and aims to professionalize Congolese football while promoting the image of the country via the club's international canals.
Africa at the heart of the Monegasque project
A partnership that revolves around two axes: the training of young talents-an area where Monaco has recognized know-how-and the promotion of the image of the Congo on a global scale. Reinforced visibility in particular by the presence of the Congolese logo on club jerseys in Ligue 1 and in the Champions League from the 2025-26 season. A nod to history: several Congolese have already marked the club, from Shabani Nonda to Cédric Mongongu.
Monaco strikes hard, but not yet with Pogba
In filigree, this announcement is part of a global dynamic. Supported by President Félix Tshisekedi, this collaboration aims to make sport a lever for social, economic and cultural transformation. “It's not just an agreement, it is a 360 ° vision”underlined Minister Didier Budimbu. And for Thiago Scuro, the director general of ASM, this is a partnership “Unpublished and meaningful”.
But that supporters do not despair: the other formalization – that of Pogba – should not be long. Timing, carefully orchestrated, could make this week one of the most significant in Monegasque summer. One more wink to the club's opening and ambition policy, resolutely international.
