'Messi's Successor' Can't Stop Scoring, Leading the Ligue 1 Top Scorers

The clash between Monaco and Nice witnessed a stunning display from Ansu Fati, who is playing for AS Monaco on loan from Barcelona.

Although the home team fell behind by two goals in under 45 minutes, the Spanish forward still managed to make a significant impact, helping Monaco secure a valuable point against OGC Nice in the 7th round of Ligue 1.

Monaco had a tough start as Diop from Nice quickly scored twice, creating a 2-0 lead. However, the numerical advantage after Abdi’s red card in the 34th minute opened opportunities for coach Adi Hütter’s squad. In a dominant phase, Fati scored a penalty in the 45+5 minute, narrowing the gap and giving hope to the Principality fans. In the second half, he converted a second penalty in the 62nd minute, completing his brace and securing a 2-2 draw for Monaco.

These two crucial goals raised Fati’s total tally this season to 6 in just 5 matches across all competitions. Specifically in Ligue 1, he has netted 5 goals in 3 appearances, sharing the top scorer spot with Joaquin Panichelli of Strasbourg. This is an impressive feat for a player who was long doubted due to form and fitness issues.

According to statistics from L’Équipe, Fati has scored in 4 of his last 5 games since joining Monaco in the summer transfer window. Not only consistent in scoring, he was also voted the club’s Player of the Month for September, a well-deserved reward for his explosive performances.

Fati’s revival sends positive signals not only for AS Monaco but also for Barcelona, his parent club. After more than two years struggling with injuries and losing his place at Camp Nou, he is gradually reclaiming the image of a talent once expected to succeed Lionel Messi. If he maintains this form, the 22-year-old could bring a significant transfer fee when the summer 2026 market opens.

Fati’s impressive form has also led fans to believe he might be called back to the Spanish national team, something supporters have eagerly awaited for nearly two years.