The Spanish player of Guinean descent, Ansu Fati, has returned to form, scoring a goal in AS Monaco's victory over their hosts CSKA Sofia on Thursday evening, in the first round of the UEFA Europa Conference League, marking his first start of the season.
The match saw Ansu Fati's return to the starting lineup after a five-month absence from scoring and regular participation, following a calf injury sustained during pre-season preparations that kept him out of action until recently.
Ansu Fati's goal came just before the end of the first half, after he received the ball at the edge of the penalty area. He managed to control it with his right foot before firing a strong and precise low shot that settled just inside the post, celebrating the goal with great joy in a step he hopes will mark the beginning of his return to form and status with the French team.
Ansu Fati had returned to match action through a friendly against Pisa during the international break, before coming on as a substitute for 15 minutes in the Ligue 1 clash against FC Toulouse five days ago, which has now earned him the chance to start against CSKA Sofia under AS Monaco manager Felipe.
Paris Brunner scored the first goal for AS Monaco, before the Bulgarian team reduced the deficit through Zvarc in the closing minutes. However, the French team maintained their lead, achieving their second victory in two matches in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Ansu Fati hopes that his return to scoring will help him secure a place in AS Monaco's lineup in the upcoming phase, especially as he seeks to overcome injury troubles and regain the consistency he has been missing in recent times.
