Paul Pogba Monaco Comeback Ligue 1: Midfield Maestro Set for Long-Awaited Return After 26-Month Absence

Football star Paul Pogba is finally set for his Paul Pogba Monaco Comeback Ligue 1 debut against Rennes, marking his first appearance in 26 months following injuries and a doping ban. Can the World Cup winner still achieve his 2026 France World Cup dream?

After over two tumultuous years out of the game, one of football’s most extravagantly gifted midfielders, Paul Pogba, is poised to make his long-awaited return to competitive action this weekend. The 32-year-old World Cup winner is expected to feature for his new club, AS Monaco, as they travel to take on Rennes in Ligue 1 this Saturday.

The match will mark a significant milestone: Pogba’s first competitive appearance in 26 months and his professional club debut in his native France.

An Absence Marked by Controversy and Injury

Pogba’s time away from the pitch has been riddled with adversity. He has made only 12 appearances across the last three seasons due to persistent injuries, an ongoing extortion case where he was the victim, and a doping suspension.

The midfielder tested positive for a banned substance in August 2023 while playing for Juventus, leading to an initial four-year ban that was subsequently reduced to 18 months. Following the conclusion of his suspension in March, Juventus terminated his contract, ending a difficult second spell in Turin.

The New Chapter: Paul Pogba Monaco Comeback Ligue 1

In a major gamble during the close-season, AS Monaco decided to offer Pogba a lifeline, signing him as he sought to resurrect his career. The decision to bring him to Ligue 1—the league where he began his career as a youth player—is seen as a calculated risk, betting on his supreme talent to outweigh the concerns over his recent history and fitness.

Monaco’s management has kept the midfielder sidelined since his arrival, putting him through a custom-made physical regimen to ensure his body is ready for the rigors of elite competition.

While he is unlikely to start against Rennes, manager Sebastien Pocognoli is expected to ease the 2018 World Cup hero back into the squad, likely sending him on for the final moments. All eyes will be on his every touch during this pivotal Paul Pogba Monaco Comeback Ligue 1 match.

Dreaming of the 2026 World Cup

For Pogba, the goal is simple: return to peak form and secure a spot back in the French national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

“It’s the wish of every French football player to represent the France national team,” Pogba said upon signing for Monaco. “Today I’m at stage one: coming back and performing well. There are spots to be won and you have to earn them.”

The success of his Paul Pogba Monaco Comeback Ligue 1 campaign will ultimately determine if the gifted midfielder can convince Didier Deschamps and find the consistency needed to perform at the highest level once again.