French midfield maestro Paul Pogba recently grabbed global attention after being photographed training in an Argentina national team jersey. While the image sparked speculation that he might have switched allegiances, the reality is far less dramatic. Pogba donned the jersey purely as a tribute to his admiration for Argentine football.
The 2026 season has been challenging for Pogba, who has been battling a persistent muscle injury. Several matches for AS Monaco were missed due to this setback, making his return to full fitness a priority. Training sessions are now a key part of his rehabilitation, and it was during one of these sessions at FC Barcelona’s training complex that he was seen wearing the iconic sky-blue and white stripes.
Spanish prodigy Ansu Fati joined Pogba during the session, and the two shared light-hearted moments captured in photos posted by Pogba on Instagram. In a playful caption, Pogba referred to the pair as “Father–Son,” reflecting the camaraderie and mutual respect between the established French international and the rising Spanish star.
Pogba’s connection with Argentine football is not entirely new. Several years ago, during a break from professional football, he participated in an informal match wearing River Plate’s kit alongside friends. Furthermore, during the 2025 Club World Cup, Pogba visited Boca Juniors’ training camp, meeting club president Juan Román Riquelme and former national team player Marcos Rojo, solidifying his ties to the Argentine footballing scene.
Below is a brief overview of Pogba’s recent career and interactions related to Argentina:
| Year | Club/Event | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Juventus | Tested positive in doping control; 18-month ban imposed (later reduced by CAS) |
| 2025 | Boca Juniors Training Camp | Met President Juan Román Riquelme and Marcos Rojo |
| 2026 | AS Monaco | Missed several matches due to muscle injury; ongoing rehabilitation |
| 2026 | FC Barcelona Training | Practised wearing Argentina jersey with Ansu Fati; social media posts |
Having served a lengthy suspension and endured injury setbacks, Pogba is now fully focused on regaining match fitness and returning to consistent competitive form. His ultimate aim is to reclaim the rhythm and performance levels that made him one of the world’s most recognisable midfielders.
For football fans, these images are more than just a quirky gesture. They highlight Pogba’s enduring love for the sport, his respect for footballing cultures beyond France, and the lighter, human side of a player often defined by high-pressure club and international performances. As he works to re-establish himself on the pitch, the Argentina jersey episode serves as a reminder of the global connections that enrich the beautiful game.