Paul Pogba finally made his return to competitive football on Saturday night, coming off the bench for Monaco in their 4-1 Ligue 1 defeat to Rennes. The former Manchester United midfielder, who had not played in over two years due to a doping suspension, entered the fray in the 80th minute with his side already 4-0 down.
The 811-day absence ended with a brief but emotional 10-minute appearance. Pogba registered 17 touches, completed 14 of 15 passes, and recorded two ball recoveries and one interception. A late goal from former Arsenal forward Mika Biereth proved only a consolation for the hosts.
Speaking after the match, Pogba admitted mixed emotions. "I was disappointed to lose. It's Paul Pogba's return, but I play for Monaco, and I don't like losing," he said. "I was really happy on one hand, but disappointed with the result. Seeing the crowd stand up and applaud, I wasn't expecting that. I'm relieved to be back playing football."
Monaco manager Sebastien Pocognoli had hinted at Pogba's inclusion earlier in the week, stating that the midfielder had been performing well in training. Pogba signed for Monaco as a free agent in June 2025 and was given a tailored fitness programme, but a minor injury delayed his debut.
Pogba will now hope to increase his involvement in the coming weeks, with Monaco set to face Pafos in the Champions League next Tuesday before taking on Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1.
