sevendayweekender – Paul Pogba made an emotional return to football as he was unveiled by AS Monaco in front of a packed auditorium. Reporters from France, England, and Italy gathered to witness the moment. Pogba, 32, addressed the media with a mix of honesty and hope after two years of personal and professional struggles.
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The former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder signed a two-year contract with Monaco. A viral video captured him in tears during the signing. “There were so many images that came into my mind,” Pogba said, referencing his doping ban, serious injuries, and personal trauma.
His career was derailed in 2022 by injuries and an extortion attempt involving his brother, Mathias. The ordeal left Pogba emotionally drained. Later, a doping ban issued in 2023 further sidelined him. The suspension was initially four years but reduced to 18 months after appeal.
Pogba admitted his mind had been in turmoil, saying, “In my head, there was sometimes an angel that said: ‘You’ll come back,’ and a demon that said: ‘It’s over.’” He credited his wife for helping him stay focused and shared a dream of seeing his children celebrate his goals again.
Now, he feels mentally stronger and physically motivated. Pogba hopes to return to form in time to join France’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. “It would be another dream, a bonus,” he said. But he acknowledged the challenge ahead: “To get back to a professional level, it will take time.”
Monaco’s CEO, Thiago Scuro, emphasized a realistic recovery timeline. “We expect a three-month process,” he stated, ruling Pogba out of the opening Ligue 1 match. While Pogba joked about wanting to play immediately, his comeback is unlikely before October.
Monaco Bets on Pogba’s Comeback as Ligue 1 Eyes Global Attention
Pogba’s arrival at Monaco represents both a high-risk investment and a potential marketing boost. Though he signed on a free transfer, his salary reflects his global status. Monaco will not rush him back, thanks to a strong midfield lineup featuring Denis Zakaria, Lamine Camara, and Eric Dier.
His presence has already made an impact commercially. Over half of the club’s pre-ordered shirts bear Pogba’s name. For Ligue 1, his return adds star power just as the league works to launch a new TV channel to attract more subscribers.
Figures from French football praised the move. Rennes manager Habib Beye called it “great to see players of his quality in Ligue 1.” Brest’s Éric Roy echoed that sentiment, adding that uncertainty remains around Pogba’s fitness. Vincent Labrune, Ligue 1’s president, welcomed Pogba’s charisma and international reputation.
Pogba joins the league at a pivotal time. The LFP is aiming for nearly two million subscribers to its new platform by 2027-28. However, concerns remain over short-term broadcast revenues. “The 2025-26 season will be difficult in terms of domestic TV rights,” warned LFP Media CEO Nicolas de Tavernost.
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Monaco hopes to avoid past disappointments, like with Cesc Fàbregas, who left quietly in 2022. Scuro remains optimistic: “We are pretty confident that Paul can bring a lot.” Pogba himself believes he has more to give: “I hope to be even better than before because I have more desire.” Though questions linger about his fitness, Pogba’s determination and experience may be key for both Monaco and France. His journey from despair to determination is one to watch closely in the months ahead.
