Paul Pogba set for 1st Monaco game after 2 years out

Paul Pogba is set to return to the pitch this weekend, more than two years after his last competitive appearance and a lengthy doping ban.

The 32-year-old French midfielder has faced a string of setbacks since signing with AS Monaco in June 2025. Pogba was due to make his debut last month but suffered a muscle injury, only to later pull out of another game after injuring his ankle in training.

Now, according to French media, Paul Pogba has been included in Monaco’s squad for their Ligue 1 clash against Rennes on Saturday. If he plays, it will mark his first appearance since February 2023, when he last played for Juventus in Serie A against Empoli.

Monaco coach Sebastien Pocognoli expressed cautious optimism about Pogba’s return. “We’ll judge him by what he offers on the pitch,” he said. “The last time I thought he’d play, it didn’t happen. But Paul is focused and determined, and that’s what matters.”

Pocognoli also highlighted Pogba’s value beyond the field, noting his experience could help mentor younger players and lift the squad. “The more leaders we have, the more pressure is shared. If Paul is used effectively, the team can benefit from his influence,” he said.

Pogba’s road back has been turbulent. He was handed a four-year doping ban in September 2023, later reduced to 18 months, and his Juventus contract was terminated. Speaking about the ordeal, Pogba described it as going through “hell.”

Now, he hopes to rekindle his career at Monaco, who are currently sixth in Ligue 1, five points shy of a Champions League spot and seven points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain.

Fans will be eagerly watching to see if the former Manchester United and Juventus star can pick up where he left off and make an immediate impact for the Ligue 1 side.