Paul Pogba Set to Return for Monaco After More Than Two Years Out
After more than two years away, a World Cup champion is finally ready to break the silence. But his return comes wrapped in doubt, caution… and enormous expectation.
The Most Anticipated Comeback in French Football
European football is preparing for a moment that once felt impossible: Paul Pogba is finally ready to return to an official match more than two and a half years after his last professional appearance. The French midfielder, now with AS Monaco, could play his first minutes this Saturday against Rennes, as reported by L’Équipe.
His debut had already been scheduled twice, but a muscle injury first and then an ankle issue derailed his plans. This time, however, everything suggests the World Cup winner will step onto the pitch for the first time since his final match with Juventus against Empoli in Serie A.
Maximum Caution From the Technical Staff
Monaco manager Sebastien Pocognoli is choosing to stay grounded. The false alarms of recent weeks have taught him not to rush:
“We’ll judge him based on what he offers. I hope he’s close to playing, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself. When he’s on the pitch, I see someone who is happy and determined to get back to his best level.”
He added that his goal is to support the midfielder through a process that won’t be simple: “If we can bring back his smile in an official match, that would be fantastic. He has character, and I believe the mind controls many things.”
A Leader Monaco Wants Back
Pocognoli also highlighted Pogba’s importance as a leader inside the dressing room:
“Experienced players must guide the younger ones. If Paul is used effectively, the whole group benefits. My job is to help make that happen.”
For Monaco, recovering his influence could be crucial at a delicate moment: the club currently sits sixth in Ligue 1, five points off a Champions League spot and seven behind leaders PSG.
From Hell to a Second Chance
Pogba endured one of the toughest periods of his career when he received a four-year doping ban, later reduced to 18 months, which allowed him to return. After Juventus tore up his contract, the Frenchman admitted he had gone through “hell.”
Now, with a two-year deal at Monaco and a new manager, the midfielder is seeking a fresh start. If he finally steps onto the field this weekend, football will witness one of the most symbolic comebacks in recent years.
