For one time CSKA Moscow goalkeeper Oleg Chepchugov, Aleksandr Golovin’s stand-out performance during Monaco’s 3-1 victory over Ligue 1 leaders Paris Saint-Germain last weekend was proof of one thing.
That one of Europe’s most in-form playmakers is ready to do like Kylian Mbappe, Fabinho and Bernardo Silva, and take the next step after outgrowing the French footballing pond.
“I believe that Golovin has grown to the level of the Premier League. He needs to change leagues,” Chepchugov tells Sport24. “Now is the time to move into the elite.”
Golovin’s form over the last few months is that of a footballer realising his vast potential at last; the tantalising talents he showcased at the Russian World Cup finally visible week-in, week-out at club level.
Former Newcastle United target Aleksandr Golovin in the form of his life
“In training, I saw a player that was technically very gifted. But not in good shape,” Monaco coach Philippe Clement tells BeIN Sports, Golovin adding physicality to his finesse.
“We knew we could help him become a top player, and he worked hard. Now, he’s fresher, stronger and more explosive. He’s realising his full potential. You can really see the difference now for sure.”
A tally of five goals and seven assists in 2022/23, while impressive, does not quite do Golovin’s influence justice. His form, to quote the Monaco Tribune, has been ‘exceptional’; the Russian’s creativity, unpredictability and fearsome set-piece prowess catapulting Monaco back into the Ligue 1 title race, cutting the gap to PSG by a further three points during a terrific win at the Stade Louis II.
Eyebrows may have been raised when Newcastle United made a £34 million bid back in January 2022, per Championat. His form, at the time, was patchy at best. But the way Golovin has gone about his business since then is a reminder of just how effortlessly unplayable he can be when fit and firing.
According to Alexander Klyuev, Golovin’s agent, Newcastle held ‘negotiations’ with the former CSKA Moscow talisman some 13 months ago. Now, it’s German giants Borussia Dortmund on the blower (Sport24).
“Golovin is a very good player,” says former Southampton winger Sofiane Boufal, who has come up up against the Russia international at Angers. “I like his playing style.
“He can play for clubs of the level of Liverpool or Chelsea, because he has a huge potential.”
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