Paul Pogba, the 2018 World Cup winner, was not included in France's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after failing to prove his fitness. The 33-year-old midfielder acknowledged that participating in the tournament was unrealistic given his lack of match sharpness.
Doping Ban and Appeal
Pogba received a four-year doping ban in February 2024 after testing positive for non-endogenous testosterone metabolites while playing for Juventus. The Court of Arbitration for Sport reduced the suspension to 18 months on appeal, accepting that his ingestion of the banned substance was not intentional. He was cleared to play from March 2025.
Injury Struggles at Monaco
After leaving Juventus, Pogba signed a two-year contract with AS Monaco in summer 2025. However, his return was hampered by persistent knee problems, causing him to miss significant parts of the 2025-26 season. He was also left out of Monaco's Champions League knockout squad.
Midfield Depth in France Squad
France manager Didier Deschamps still holds Pogba in high regard but could not justify selecting him based on reputation alone. The national team has exceptional depth in midfield, requiring Pogba to have regular game time for a realistic chance. According to sources close to the team, Deschamps prioritised players in form.
Pogba's Own Admission
Pogba described a return to the national team as an 'ultra-bonus' and not an immediate priority. He stated that his main focus is on regaining full fitness and securing regular playing time for Monaco.
Role as Adidas Ambassador
Despite being left out, Pogba travelled to the United States for the tournament as an official ambassador for sportswear giant Adidas. He is attending in a promotional capacity.
Supporting France from the Sidelines
Pogba intends to support the French team as a fan and hopes to visit the squad and back Deschamps, who is expected to be overseeing his final major competition with Les Bleus.
Upcoming Quarter-Final
France will face Morocco in the quarter-finals on Thursday night at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts. The match is a rematch of their semi-final four years ago in Qatar. France aims to extend their campaign without Pogba.
