Paris Brunner drives Monaco into Conference League success despite ban

In the cold light of the Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia, the 20‑year‑old Paris Brunner opened the game for AS Monaco already in the third minute with the 1‑0 and later added the 2‑0 before the team reached the final result of 2‑1. With two scoring points he became the match‑winner in the Conference‑League appearance against ZSKA Sofia.

Early goal and assist for the former Barca talent

After the early lead, Brunner set up the second goal, which the former Barcelona talent Ansu Fati converted in the 43rd minute to make it 2‑0. The German U21 international therefore demonstrated not only finishing ability but also play‑making qualities.

Coach's praise and upcoming suspension

Monaco coach Filipe Luis praised Brunner effusively: “Paris is in fantastic form,” he emphasized after the match. Despite this form, Brunner will not be used next weekend against Lorient in Ligue 1, as he has to serve the second match of his suspension.

The suspension resulted from an incident in September, when Brunner celebrated his goal with a “head‑off‑cheer” after a 1‑1 draw against Racing Strasbourg. The league then imposed a two‑match suspension plus two additional probationary games.

Monaco reclaims win: Ansu Fati scores on return, Luis hails pressure

In the mixed zone after the match against Strasbourg, Brunner said: “I wouldn’t say I regret it, but that wasn’t the message I wanted to convey. It was misunderstood. What I wanted to say was: ‘What a goal, it’s over.’” Weeks later, on Thursday in Sofia, he expressed remorse: “I regret what I did, and I take a lesson from it for the future.”

Brunner’s career began in the youth ranks of Borussia Dortmund. After no contract extension was reached in 2024, the club sold the striker for four million euros to Monaco, who initially loaned him to Cercle Brugge. This season, after eight league appearances, he has seven goals and one assist.

A Foot‑Mercato report mentions a “Matching Right” secured by the Dortmund club, which gives them a right of first refusal on an offer from another club. Due to the current surge in form, Brunner’s market value has risen to 15 million euros.