Concerns are growing over Paul Pogba's ability to reignite his career at AS Monaco, with the former Manchester United midfielder managing just a handful of appearances since his long-awaited return from a doping ban.
A Stop-Start Return to Action
Paul Pogba's move to Monaco last summer was meant to herald a fresh start after a turbulent period. The 32-year-old had seen a four-year ban for a doping violation reduced to 18 months, with authorities accepting he had taken a banned substance unintentionally. However, his path back to regular football has hit further obstacles.
After leaving Juventus, Pogba joined the Ligue 1 side but was not fit to play immediately due to injury issues. Compounding the problem, manager Adi Hutter, who signed him, was dismissed before Pogba could make his debut for the club.
Manager Pocognoli's Cautious Stance
Since finally making his competitive return in November against Rennes—his first match in over two years—Pogba has featured only three times as a substitute in the league. He was an unused substitute in two Champions League fixtures and was omitted entirely from the squad for last weekend's clash with Marseille.
Ahead of a Coupe de France tie with Auxerre, Monaco's current manager, Sebastien Pocognoli, directly addressed the mounting worry surrounding the star's situation. "To have come back from where he was and to play again is already spectacular," the Belgian coach stated.
"But right now, I can’t look towards the future. He is working, and we are there to support him. I understand the concern but I can’t worry about that. I manage the team, and Paul is a part of what I want to put in place, as soon as he is ready to help us."
Pogba's Emotional Comeback and Monaco's Form
Following his debut against Rennes, an emotional Pogba took to social media to mark the occasion. "Last night was unforgettable," he wrote. "Stepping back onto the pitch after two years away meant more to me than I can express... This debut wasn’t just mine… it belonged to all of you who never stopped supporting me."
His brief cameo included an appearance in a notable victory over Paris Saint-Germain, offering a glimpse of his potential impact. However, his absence coincides with a dip in Monaco's domestic form; the team has won only one of its last six Ligue 1 matches, despite Pocognoli remaining unbeaten in the Champions League.
The club now turns its attention to the cup, with defender Caio Henrique expressing a strong desire to win the Coupe de France. "This title is a dream for all the players," Henrique said, referencing his appearance in the 2021 final. "I hope a great journey begins for us on Sunday."
For Pogba, the immediate future remains uncertain. The winter break offers a chance for further physical preparation, but Pocognoli's recent comments make it clear that the World Cup winner will only be reintegrated when he is deemed fully ready to contribute.
