Paul Pogba Set to Make Comeback with AS Monaco

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Paul Pogba is likely to be part of AS Monaco’s squad this Saturday for their match against Rennes, and sources indicate that the plan is for him to participate for a few minutes.

Background

The 32-year-old midfielder has been sidelined for 26 months, having last played for Juventus on September 3, 2023, in a match against Empoli where he managed only 28 minutes on the field. Despite being a highly regarded player, Pogba has not made an appearance in Ligue 1 throughout his career, moving from Le Havre to Manchester United at the age of 16.

In August 2023, he received a positive test result for DHEA—a substance known to boost testosterone—following a game against Udinese and was subsequently banned for four years in February 2024.

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Pogba has consistently maintained that his positive test was due to a contamination issue with dietary supplements. After an appeal, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced his suspension to 18 months, allowing him to return to play starting in March 2025.

Current Status

The former France international, who has 91 caps and 11 goals for his national team, is eager to participate in the 2026 World Cup. He practiced with his teammates on Thursday and is set to do so again on Friday. Provided he has no issues during training, he is expected to make the trip to Rennes and take to the field. The strategy is to gradually increase his playtime in the upcoming weeks, aiming for him to eventually play full matches.

AS Monaco’s Prospects

Sebastien Pocognoli, who recently took over as Monaco’s manager, is just 38 years old and sees the return of the 2018 World Cup champion as a significant boost for the team, which currently sits sixth in the league, trailing behind Marseille by five points and seven behind the leaders, Paris Saint-Germain.

Pogba was initially slated to participate against Angers before the international break, but a minor ankle injury during training forced him to withdraw.

A Long-Awaited Return

After a prolonged absence, Pogba, now adorned with the number 8 jersey, is finally set to rejoin the game this weekend. Having signed a two-year contract with Monaco in late June, the club developed a comprehensive fitness program to ensure he regains his form while minimizing the risk of injury. This program included extensive assessments ranging from biochemical data to mobility tests.

For the past five months, sources indicate that Pogba has dedicated himself to reclaiming his fitness levels in time for a return before the year’s end. His training sessions have been exemplary, and he has quickly emerged as a leader among a young squad, offering valuable guidance.

Following the termination of his contract with Juventus in November 2024, Pogba carefully considered his next move. He received numerous offers from various clubs but ultimately chose Monaco, motivated by their project, the opportunity to participate in the Champions League, and the desired role he would assume within the team, alongside favorable living conditions for himself and his family.