YOU always want to be on the good side of your manager.
But when French wonderkid Benoit Badiashile, 19, forgot his manners in front of former Monaco boss Thierry Henry, he was quickly reminded.
French wonderkid Benoit Badiashile was wanted by Man Utd last summer
But Badiashile once upset Thierry Henry when he forgot to tuck his chair in after a press conference
It all happened in December 2018 at a press conference ahead of Monaco’s must-win match against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
Badiashile was sat alongside the Arsenal legend answering reporters’ questions, and when the pair finished they jumped up from their seats to leave the room.
However, poor Benoit forgot to tuck his chair in and Henry glared at him like a naughty schoolboy until the youngster returned to the table to correct his mistake.
Since then, Badiashile has risen through the ranks – impressing this campaign under Niko Kovac as Monaco remain in contention for Ligue 1.
BLOODED BY HENRY
Despite infuriating his ex-manager, Badiashile was bled into the team by Henry who quickly realised the towering defender’s qualities.
This season Badiashile has become a key part of Monaco’s defence as they chase the Ligue 1 titleCredit: AFP or licensors
The 6ft 4in France under-21 international went on to play 26 times in all competitions for the Ligue 1 side as he made his breakthrough in the first team in his debut season.
And when Henry was fired from the Stade Louis II, experienced manager Leonardo Jardim continued to integrate the prodigy into his side – installing a greater defensive discipline into Badiashile, although his appearances were more limited.
But this season Badiashile has shone under Kovac.
BROTHERS IN ARMS
Born in France, and raised by Congolese parents – Badiashile dreamed of playing professional football.
But it was his elder goalkeeping brother who made the grade first.
Henry gave Badiashile his debut for MonacoCredit: AFP or licensors
Loic Badiashile, 23, is also highly thought of at Monaco – and made his first team debut in a UEFA Champions League qualifier against Fenerbache in 2016.
It ended in a disappointing 2-1 loss, and it seems that bad results on their debuts runs in the Badiashile family.
When Benoit was thrown into the side against PSG, the Red and Whites were taught a lesson.
He was helpless as Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and former striker Edinson Cavani put Monaco to the sword, with the Uruguayan netting a hat-trick.
CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY
It was a rude awakening for the teen sensation, but it didn’t destroy his confidence and he showed incredible mental strength to shrug that disappointment off.
That courageous spirit is just one of Badiashile’s many qualities that have caught the eye of Europe’s top club, including Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
For his strong frame, his pace and ability to read the game and snuff out danger before it arrives is reminiscent of Napoli star Kalidou Koulibaly,
A powerhouse at the back, he’s tough to get past, but as with most young defenders positionally he can drift away from his man.
That said, coaches for the French national team believe he’s the next big thing and have high hopes for Badiashile.
Badiashile is strong, athletic and reads the game wellCredit: Getty – Contributor
A France under-21 international, Badiashile is expected to become a full internationalCredit: Instagram
Badiashile could be a big hit in the Premier League if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer decides to sign him from FranceCredit: Instagram
He’s been capped at under-16 level – all the way through to the under-21’s for France – and is expected to become a full international in time.
Benoit revealed that Manchester United DID bid for him last summer, however he snubbed a £22million move.
Don’t bet against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer returning for him this summer.
Red Devils push Toon closer to drop zone after Manchester United vs Newcastle
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
