Duesseldorf to host AS Monaco in friendly

Fortuna Duesseldorf will host newly-promoted French league side AS Monaco in a pre-season friendly on July 14, the German second division club announced today.

Having been relegated from the Bundesliga on the last day of the season, Fortuna are hoping the French second division champions, who are backed by wealthy Russian businessman Dmitry Rybolovlev, will bring their newly-acquired stars to the Rhineland.

Monaco have signed Joao Moutinho and James Rodriguez from FC Porto and striker Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid and have ambitious plans under Italian coach Claudio Ranieri for next season in France’s top flight.

Under new coach Mike Bueskens, Fortuna are hoping to return to the Bundesliga at the first attempt.