When you thought Paul Pogba’s football career might be slipping into obscurity, the French maestro has bounced back with an eye-catching two-year deal at AS Monaco. Pogba’s story isn’t just a comeback; it’s a football renaissance.
Why Monaco? The Real Reason Paul Pogba Picked Ligue 1
While whispers of Paul Pogba jetting off to the lucrative Saudi Pro League or America’s MLS surfaced, he surprised fans and experts alike by choosing AS Monaco. Here’s why:
Monaco’s Champions League ambitions and Ligue 1’s growing global reputation made it an appealing choice. Pogba clearly values competition over cash, choosing a club ready to fight at the highest level over lucrative but less competitive offers.
Pogba’s Suspension: A Tough Journey Back
In case you missed it, Paul Pogba tested positive for DHEA back in September 2023 — a banned substance that resulted in a harsh four-year ban.
However, true to his fighting spirit, Pogba appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The ban was reduced to 18 months, freeing him to train and negotiate his comeback in March 2025.
Since then, the midfield maestro has kept fans guessing with cryptic social media posts, including a cheeky snap in a Real Madrid shirt. But today, the mystery is over — Pogba is Monaco-bound.
Remember, Pogba’s career hit a significant roadblock in 2023 due to a doping ban after testing positive for DHEA. Originally banned for four years, Pogba fought back and secured a reduction to 18 months. His persistence speaks volumes about his determination and resilience—traits Monaco undoubtedly finds appealing.
Pogba’s Career Statistics
| Season | Club | Matches Played | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016/17 | Manchester United | 51 | 9 | 6 |
| 2017/18 | Manchester United | 37 | 6 | 12 |
| 2018/19 | Manchester United | 47 | 16 | 11 |
| 2019/20 | Manchester United | 22 | 1 | 4 |
| 2020/21 | Manchester United | 42 | 6 | 9 |
| 2021/22 | Manchester United | 27 | 1 | 9 |
| 2022/23 | Juventus | 2 | 0 | 0 |
What Does Paul Pogba Offer AS Monaco?
Monaco hasn’t just signed a big name; they’ve acquired a player whose creativity, leadership, and winning mentality can transform their midfield. At 32, Paul Pogba offers immense experience from his successful stints with Manchester United and Juventus.
With AS Monaco securing Champions League football, Pogba brings invaluable European pedigree to a squad that will benefit immensely from his guidance, especially the younger talents eager to learn from a World Cup winner.
Match Analysis: How Will Pogba Impact Monaco’s Game?
Paul Pogba’s style is well-suited to Ligue 1, which values technical skill and tactical flexibility. Monaco tends to play dynamic, attacking football—a perfect environment for Pogba’s creative passing and powerful drives forward.
His defensive awareness and robust physicality will also bolster Monaco’s midfield, providing the team with greater stability and freedom to push forward. Expect Monaco to harness Pogba’s long-range passing and ability to break defensive lines, creating numerous scoring opportunities for their forwards.
Pogba’s International Record
| Team | Appearances | Goals | Major Trophies |
| France | 91 | 11 | World Cup 2018 Winner |
Pogba’s Return to French Soil: A Historic Moment
Surprisingly, despite Pogba’s illustrious international career, he’s never played senior professional football in France. Leaving Le Havre for Manchester United at just 16, this marks Pogba’s first foray into France’s top tier, making it an emotional and symbolic return home.
Can Pogba Revive His International Career?
With the 2026 World Cup around the corner, Pogba’s move to Monaco is timely. Regular playtime in a top European league significantly boosts his chances of returning to Didier Deschamps’ France squad. For Pogba, Monaco isn’t just a destination—it’s his ticket back to the global stage.
Final Thoughts: A Gamble Worth Taking
Signing Pogba isn’t without risk for Monaco, but it’s exactly the kind of bold move that signals ambition. For Pogba, this is a decisive moment—perhaps his final big shot at reclaiming his former glory.
Whether you’re a Monaco supporter or just a football fan who loves a good comeback, keep an eye on Paul Pogba. This chapter could become one of football’s most intriguing stories.
