Paul Pogba Begins New Chapter at AS Monaco, but Comeback Will Take Time

Paul Pogba has officially joined AS Monaco on a two-year contract until June 2027, but fans must wait before seeing him play. The club says he may need three months to reach full fitness.

According to a previous report, Pogba has officially signed for AS Monaco.

WHAT HAPPENED?

AS Monaco’s director, Thiago Scuro, announced that Pogba is not ready to play yet and will miss the opening game against Le Havre. Speaking at Pogba’s unveiling, Scuro said the club is happy to have the star midfielder, but Pogba is at the “first stage” of his comeback. The director said it might take about three months for Pogba to return to good shape after his long absence from competitive football.

POGBA’S ROAD BACK TO FRANCE AND MONACO’S AMBITIONS

Pogba signed a two-year contract with Monaco on a free transfer after his four-year doping ban was reduced to 18 months. This ban kept him away from the game for nearly two years. His last club appearance was for Juventus in September 2023 against Empoli. The 32-year-old, a 2018 World Cup winner with France, turned down offers from Saudi Arabia to restart his career in Ligue 1 for the first time, having never played in the French top flight before. AS Monaco will hope Pogba can help lead their midfield as they try to improve their league standing. They had a strong 2024/25 campaign, finishing third and securing a spot in the Champions League group stage.

According to a previous report, Pogba has made over 420 senior appearances and won major honors with Juventus and Manchester United.

MONACO’S UPCOMING MATCHES AND SEASON OUTLOOK

Monaco begin their Ligue 1 season against Le Havre, who played in Ligue 1 last season and are looking to build on their stability. While Pogba will not play in the season opener, Monaco face a busy schedule as they return to European competition. They aim to catch up to last season’s top three. Their next fixtures include matches against Lyon and Lille, both direct rivals for Champions League spots. Pogba’s gradual return will be watched closely by fans and coaches. They hope his presence will turn Monaco into real title challengers.

According to a previous report, AS Monaco aims to challenge Paris Saint-Germain for Ligue 1 supremacy.