Monaco (AFP) – The Russian Vadim Vasilyev has left his position as vice-president of Monaco, with the principality club saying “serious mistakes” led to his departure.
French champions and Champions League semi-finalists in 2017, Monaco have since sold off most of their prized assets and currently lie in the bottom three in Ligue 1.
The decision to sack title-winning coach Leonardo Jardim in October and replace him with Thierry Henry backfired spectacularly, with the Arsenal and France legend lasting just three months before being fired. Jardim was then brought back for a second spell.
“Over the past year, serious mistakes had been made that have led to the team’s worst performance in seven years,” said Monaco’s Russian owner, Dmitry Rybolovlev, in a statement published on the club’s website.
“Since recently, I have had to deal with the club’s problems,” Rybolovlev added.
“I took a number of difficult, but, in my opinion, necessary decisions.
“In particular, I called Leonardo Jardim myself, apologising for the mistake made back in October and asking him to return to lead the team.
“I have approved all of his proposals in relation to the acquisition of new players during the winter transfer window.”
Cesc Fabregas was the headline arrival in January, with the Spain star one of eight players brought in an effort to revive the team’s fortunes.
Vasilyev’s departure comes just 10 days after Princess Stephanie of Monaco’s son, Louis Ducruet, was appointed as his assistant.
