Paul Pogba Named in Monaco Squad for Champions League Return

Paul Pogba is in AS Monaco’s squad for the Champions League this season, making way for his long-awaited debut after joining Monaco in July. This marks Pogba’s potential return to Europe.

POGBA FINALLY READY FOR MONACO DEBUT

The 32-year-old French midfielder penned a two-year deal with Monaco this summer after his doping ban was reduced from four years to 18 months. Pogba hasn’t played a competitive game since September 2023, when Juventus suspended him for elevated levels of testosterone. His last club appearance was for Juventus in a match against Empoli, and although he has yet to feature in league matches this season, his inclusion in the Champions League squad as Monaco’s No. 8 suggests he is ready to make the pitch, potentially against Manchester City. Reports indicate that he may need three months to reach full fitness, highlighting the expected timeline for his comeback.

MONACO AND POGBA MANOEUVRE

AS Monaco slipped off the title run last season and ended up finishing 3rd, still qualifying for the Champions League. This time around, they are chasing the top positions again and battling closely with PSG and Lyon. Monaco finished third last season and aims to secure a top-three finish this campaign, with aspirations of Champions League qualification again this year. In the Champions League, Monaco is preparing for matches that will include opponents such as Manchester City, Tottenham, Real Madrid and Juventus, Pogba’s previous team. Pogba’s valuable European experience gives the players an added motivation and another experienced head to propel their progression.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR POGBA AND MONACO?

Monaco play Club Brugge in their next Champions League match, and fans expected Pogba’s return in that fixture. Currently, AS Monaco are fourth in Ligue 1 after three games with two wins and one loss, as they play 14th placed Auxerre after the international break.