Paul Pogba’s long-awaited return to football appears to be near, with Monaco boss Sebastien Pocognoli revealing that the midfielder could soon feature in the squad.
The 32-year-old signed a two-year contract with Monaco as a free agent earlier this year after serving an 18-month doping ban. Initially suspended for four years following a positive test in September 2023, Pogba’s sanction was later reduced.
[FootMercato reports] the Frenchman could make his debut this weekend against newly-promoted Paris FC after missing Monaco’s 5-3 win over Nantes on Wednesday.
Pogba joined Monaco in the summer, breaking down in tears as he signed the deal a moment that symbolised his emotional return to the sport. He has since been focused on regaining fitness and hopes to earn a spot in France’s 2026 World Cup squad.
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Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro previously confirmed that Pogba’s rehabilitation plan was carefully designed to restore his match fitness after nearly two years out. “We expect a three-month process to be able to rehabilitate him,” Scuro said in July.
Speaking earlier this week, Pocognoli stressed that Pogba will be judged on his current form rather than past achievements. “We have to judge him exactly on what he is now,” he said. “From what I have seen, he still has the technique that we know, but the rhythm of the matches will give us indications about his level.”
Under Pocognoli, Monaco have gone unbeaten in four games, winning twice and drawing twice. They sit second in Ligue 1 with 20 points, one behind Paris Saint-Germain.
Pogba’s potential return could be a huge boost as Monaco look to challenge for the league title. Whether he can rediscover his old spark remains the question and fans may not have to wait much longer to find out.
