AS Monaco's midfield receives a significant boost this weekend as star playmaker Aleksandr Golovin returns from a minor knock, just in time for their Ligue 1 clash with AJ Auxerre. His creative spark will be crucial, but manager Adi Hütter faces a tactical puzzle with the suspension of key midfielder Lamine Camara.

Camara's absence throws the midfield balance into question. One solution could see Denis Zakaria, who has recently been deployed in defense, pushed back into his natural midfield role to add physicality and stability. This potential shift comes at a time when Monaco's back line is under scrutiny, having conceded four goals in their previous outing against Paris FC, suggesting changes in defense are likely regardless.

The injury list remains a concern for Les Monégasques. They will still be without the services of Kassoum Ouattara, Mohamed Salisu, Vanderson, Takumi Minamino, and Caio Henrique, though the latter is nearing a return. Youngster Stanis Idumbo has been added to the absentee list with a shoulder injury, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the season.

With these factors in mind, here is the predicted starting XI to take on Auxerre: Lukas Hradecky; Wout Faes, Eric Dier, Thilo Kehrer; Christian Mawissa, Denis Zakaria, Mamadou Coulibaly, Jordan Teze; Aleksandr Golovin, Folarin Balogun, Maghnes Akliouche.