Paul Pogba, French midfielder and 2018 World Cup champion, is close to returning to the pitch after nearly two years sidelined by a doping suspension. At 32, the player is negotiating a two-year contract with Monaco, a Ligue 1 club qualified for the next Champions League. The ban, initially four years, was reduced to 18 months, ending in March 2025. Talks with Monaco have progressed in recent weeks, with meetings scheduled to finalize the deal. Pogba’s return to European football marks a new chapter in his career as he seeks to reclaim his place after stints at Juventus and Manchester United. He is expected to resume training in January, preparing to compete officially from March onward.
The player, who hasn’t played since September 2023 after testing positive for testosterone in an anti-doping test, faced a turbulent period. The suspension shook his career, but the reduced penalty brought renewed hope. Now a free agent after terminating his Juventus contract, Pogba received offers from various markets but prioritized Europe.
- Other clubs, like Olympique de Marseille, also showed interest.
- He turned down proposals from leagues like MLS and Saudi Arabia.
- His goal is to regain the trust of France’s national team coach Didier Deschamps.
Monaco emerges as a strategic destination, offering Pogba the chance to compete in high-level tournaments and reclaim his prominence on the global stage.
Advanced negotiations with Monaco
Discussions between Pogba and Monaco have gained momentum recently. The club, currently third in Ligue 1 for the 2024/25 season, sees the player as an opportunity to bolster its squad with experience and technical quality. The proposed contract spans two years, with an option for renewal. Sources close to the player indicate the deal could be finalized soon, with meetings planned for the weekend.
Monaco, known for signing young talents, appears willing to bet on Pogba as a central figure in its project. The club is also active in the transfer market, eyeing players like Ansu Fati from Barcelona. For Pogba, choosing Monaco reflects his ambition to return to the elite of European football, especially with a team in the Champions League.
Pogba has been training intensely in Miami under a personal fitness coach. He has played in recovery friendlies, showing good physical form. His preparation aims to ensure readiness for collective training starting in January, when he can rejoin a professional squad.
A career of highs and lows
Paul Pogba is one of the most iconic names in French football over the past decade. Emerging from Le Havre, he never played professionally for a French club, building his career at Manchester United and Juventus. His first stint at Juventus, from 2012 to 2016, was marked by titles and top performances, leading to a record-breaking transfer to United in 2016.
In England, Pogba had moments of brilliance but faced criticism for inconsistency. In 2018, he was pivotal in France’s World Cup victory, scoring in the final against Croatia. His second Juventus spell, starting in 2022, was hampered by injuries and the doping case, limiting him to just 12 matches.
The doping suspension, announced in September 2023, was the biggest challenge of his career. The positive testosterone test came after a match against Udinese in Serie A. Pogba consistently maintained his innocence, stating he never intentionally used banned substances. The penalty reduction by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was a relief, as he had even considered retirement.
Reasons for choosing France
Pogba’s decision to negotiate with Monaco reflects a desire to reconnect with his roots. Despite never playing for a French club, the midfielder has always expressed affection for his country. Monaco, located in the Principality with its football tradition, offers a competitive and familiar environment.
- Proximity to France aids reintegration into the national team.
- The club has a history of reviving experienced players’ careers.
- Ligue 1 is seen as less physically demanding than the Premier League or Serie A.
- The Champions League is a draw for Pogba, who seeks elite competitions.
Additionally, Olympique de Marseille was also considered. The club, led by sporting director Mehdi Benatia, a former Juventus teammate, made inquiries. However, Monaco’s proposal aligns better with Pogba’s goals.
Physical and technical challenges
Despite Pogba’s optimism about his return, the long period of inactivity raises questions about his physical and technical condition. At 32, the midfielder will need to prove he can still perform at a high level. Experts note that a lack of match rhythm could be an initial hurdle, but his experience and technical quality are key assets.
He has followed an intensive training program, focusing on endurance and explosive power. Pogba also worked with sports psychologists to maintain a positive mindset during his suspension. Choosing Monaco, a club with top-tier professional facilities, may ease his transition back to competitive football.
Interest from other markets
Before advancing talks with Monaco, Pogba received offers from various leagues. MLS clubs, such as Inter Miami, showed interest, particularly for the chance to pair him with stars like Lionel Messi. In Saudi Arabia, teams offered lucrative contracts, but Pogba prioritized Europe.
In Brazil, Corinthians was rumored as a potential destination, fueled by Pogba’s comments about playing alongside Memphis Depay. However, the move didn’t materialize, mainly due to financial constraints and his preference for European football.
- The MLS was ruled out for being less competitive.
- Saudi football didn’t align with Pogba’s ambitions.
- Brazilian clubs, like Corinthians, couldn’t make the deal viable.
The French national team’s role
One of Pogba’s biggest motivators is returning to the French national team. Coach Didier Deschamps, who has always valued the midfielder’s talent, emphasized that call-ups depend on club performance. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Pogba sees his European return as a chance to reclaim his spot.
During his suspension, he followed France’s matches, including the 2024 Euro round of 16, showing his attachment to the national team. His experience in major tournaments, including the 2018 World Cup title, could be a valuable asset.
A history of overcoming adversity
Pogba’s career is defined by moments of resilience. From a young age, he faced pressure as a global football prodigy. Injuries, criticism, and the doping case tested his determination, but he consistently showed resolve to move forward.
In recent interviews, Pogba said “anger” and the desire to prove his worth drive him. He also mentioned gaining “wisdom” from recent challenges, which could translate into a more mature player on and off the field.
Next steps at Monaco
If negotiations with Monaco are finalized, Pogba is expected to join the club in January to begin training with the squad. Monaco’s coach, Adi Hütter, has supported signing experienced players, which could ease the Frenchman’s integration.
The club plans to deploy Pogba in a central midfield role, leveraging his vision and long-range passing. Expectations are that he’ll bring balance to a team that has been inconsistent in some Ligue 1 matches. Monaco’s fans, though cautious, are eager to see how the World Cup champion will perform in his new home.
