The first step toward redemption

After nearly two years without playing an official match, Paul Pogba is getting closer to his long-awaited return. The French midfielder, suspended for doping since September 2023, signed with AS Monaco at the end of June and has entered a new phase: he’s now training with the ball. Although he’s still working individually, the club has shared images of the World Cup winner dribbling on his own—an encouraging sign that marks the true beginning of his football comeback.

At 32, Pogba made it clear during his presentation that his return would come “in stages,” and manager Adolf Hütter is being cautious. The club’s leadership set a potential return date around late September or early October, but everything could move forward depending on his progress.

Could he play in the upcoming friendlies?

The big question now is whether he’ll feature in either of Monaco’s last two preseason friendlies: this Sunday against Ajax, or on Friday, August 8 versus Inter Milan. That second match may be the moment Hütter gives Pogba his first minutes, nearly 700 days after his last game. While there’s no official confirmation, sources close to the club suggest this could be the ideal test run for the former Manchester United and Juventus star.

One last chance to shine

Beyond the marketing buzz or nostalgia, Pogba’s return represents a bold sporting gamble for Monaco… and possibly a last shot for a player who was once among the best in the world. If he regains his form, he could become one of the biggest reinforcements of the Ligue 1 season.