Rapid Rise of Former Arsenal Striker Mika Biereth
Former Arsenal academy standout Mika Biereth, now 22 years old, has made an impressive start at his new club, AS Monaco, where he has already scored seven goals in just seven games. Biereth, who left the Gunners last summer, has quickly become a fan favorite and a key player for Monaco, showcasing his clinical finishing and adaptability to the Ligue 1 style of play. The striker’s journey from the Emirates to the principality has been nothing short of remarkable, and his recent performance against Nantes underlines his potential and the wise investment Monaco has made.
Hat-Trick Hero Against Nantes
On Saturday, Biereth’s talents were on full display as he netted his second hat-trick for Monaco in a thrilling 7-1 victory over Nantes. The game was already heated when Nantes’s Nicolas Cozza received a red card in the eighth minute, despite his team leading 1-0. This advantage proved crucial, as Monaco steadily mounted a formidable comeback. Biereth played a pivotal role, drawing the score level in the 44th minute with a well-timed run and a close-range finish. Just six minutes into the second half, Monaco was up 3-1, and Biereth added his second goal by capitalizing on a loose ball in the penalty area, demonstrating his sharp instincts and poise in front of goal.
Completing the Hat-Trick and More
The hat-trick was completed in the 64th minute when Biereth confidently stepped up to convert a penalty, making the score 5-1. His performance was not only crucial in turning the game around but also in boosting Monaco’s goal difference, which is vital in the competitive Ligue 1 table. The team went on to score two more goals before the final whistle, giving the young striker and his teammates a well-deserved victory. Biereth’s hat-trick not only solidified his position as Monaco’s top scorer in the league but also highlighted his growing confidence and skill on the pitch.
Mixed Fortunes in Other Competitions
Despite his impressive league form, Biereth has not yet found the back of the net in other competitions. In the Coupe de France exit against Stade Reims and the first-leg Champions League play-off defeat to Benfica, he faced some setbacks. Against Reims, Biereth provided an assist, showing his ability to create opportunities for his teammates, but his penalty was saved during the shootout that decided the tie. In the Champions League, Monaco trail 1-0 going into Tuesday’s decider in Portugal, and Biereth will be crucial in Monaco’s hopes of overturning this deficit.
Financial Windfall for Arsenal
Arsenal, who sold Biereth to Sturm Graz last summer for £4m, have benefited financially from his move to Monaco. The Gunners earned an additional £2m from a sell-on clause when Monaco acquired Biereth for £11m in January. While £6m is a significant sum for a young player, it may pale in comparison to the value he could have brought to Arsenal’s current squad. Manager Mikel Arteta might well be reflecting on the decision to let Biereth go, especially given the striker’s recent form and the current team’s struggles in front of goal.
Looking Ahead
Biereth’s rapid adaptation to Monaco and his explosive scoring rate suggest a bright future for the young forward. With more opportunities in both domestic and international competitions, he is poised to become one of Monaco’s most valuable assets. As the team prepares for their crucial Champions League second leg against Benfica, all eyes will be on Biereth to see if he can continue his form and help secure a place in the group stages. His journey from Arsenal to Monaco is a testament to his talent and work ethic, and it will be fascinating to watch how his career develops in the coming seasons.
