On 3 September 2023, Paul Pogba played just 28 minutes for Juventus against Empoli. Few knew then that it would be his last appearance for more than two years. Now, after a turbulent journey filled with controversy, legal battles and personal struggle, the French midfielder is finally poised to return to the pitch. He is expected to feature—at least for a few late minutes—in AS Monaco’s Ligue 1 clash against Rennes tomorrow.
This marks the end of an extraordinary 26-month absence that nearly destroyed the career of one of France’s most talented midfielders.
The Doping Scandal That Changed Everything
Pogba’s nightmare began in September 2023 when he tested positive for a banned substance while playing for Juventus. The club immediately suspended him from all football activity. After a detailed investigation, authorities confirmed the presence of prohibited elements in his system and, in February 2024, issued a severe punishment: a four-year ban from football.
Pogba, however, maintained his innocence throughout the process, repeatedly stating that the substance must have entered his body through contaminated food rather than intentional use.
Speaking earlier, he said:
“I never knowingly took anything illegal. It was an unfortunate mistake.”
Appeal Victory: Ban Reduced and Hope Restored
The midfielder appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and it proved successful. His ban was reduced from four years to 18 months, reopening the door to a potential comeback. At 32, Pogba saw a glimmer of hope and began preparing for a fresh start.
His optimism was short-lived, though. In November 2024, Juventus terminated his contract by mutual agreement, leaving him without a club and casting fresh uncertainty over his future.
A New Beginning at AS Monaco – Tears of Relief
The lifeline came from AS Monaco. The Ligue 1 club offered Pogba a two-year contract, giving his career a much-needed rebirth. Reports from France suggested that Pogba was visibly emotional during the signing ceremony, even breaking down in tears—a reflection of the intense emotional weight he had carried for months.
Since then, Pogba has trained regularly with Monaco, working hard to rebuild his match fitness. According to ESPN, the plan is to ease him back gradually, with a few late minutes expected in his first game, followed by more playing time over the coming weeks.
Eyes on France National Team Return
Beyond club football, Pogba has another dream: wearing the France shirt again. A World Cup winner with 91 international caps, the midfielder is desperate to prove he still has what it takes to return to Didier Deschamps’ side.
Paul Pogba: Career Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 32 |
| Nationality | French |
| Current Club | AS Monaco |
| Doping Ban (initial) | 4 years |
| Doping Ban (after appeal) | 18 months |
| Last Match Before Ban | Juventus vs Empoli (3 Sept 2023) |
| International Caps | 91 |
| International Goals | 11 |
| Major Clubs | Man United, Juventus, AS Monaco |
With his return now imminent, the football world is eager to see whether Paul Pogba can defy the odds and script one of the greatest comeback stories in modern football.