Pogba’s Comeback Turns Slower as Monaco Faces Yet Another Setback

Key update on Pogba’s injury and Monaco’s plans

Pogba, the marquee midfielder for Monaco, has suffered a fresh setback that is likely to push back his return to competitive action.

Only about 24 hours before his anticipated comeback, the 32-year-old Frenchman sustained another injury during training, making it unlikely he will play before the next international break in November.

The team’s Belgian coach, Sebastien Bouconili, indicated that Pogba could be named in the squad for Paris FC’s upcoming match, but the latest setback has cooled those expectations.

His last appearance dates back to September 2023 with Juventus, followed by a four-year doping ban that was reduced to 18 months after a March 2024 CAS decision. He joined Monaco on a free transfer at the end of June and has since undergone a three-month conditioning program to regain full fitness.

He was expected to return to face Angers in early October, yet a minor setback postponed that plan. Monaco’s camp has emphasized caution as they navigate his return to full match readiness.

According to GFFN France, Pogba will not feature against Paris Saint‑Germain as previously anticipated and is unlikely to play before the November international window. Bouconili added that the goal is for Pogba to be available after the break and to be ready for the Rennes game on November 22, 2025, though the team remains disappointed by the latest injury.

The coach stressed that Pogba should be evaluated based on his current condition, not solely on past form at Manchester United or Juventus. He emphasized the importance of a gradual return and adapting Pogba’s role to his present capabilities.

Observers believe Monaco is giving Pogba a supportive environment to rebuild confidence and rhythm, leveraging his extensive European experience to benefit the club both technically and leadership-wise.

The plan is to ease his involvement—playing a few minutes in friendly matches before integrating him into official competitions. Fans are hopeful that Pogba can contribute in the second half of the season as Monaco pursues high finishes in Ligue 1 and a European berth.

Pogba’s separation from competition followed a four-year suspension for a doping violation, which was reduced to 18 months before he left Juventus and joined Monaco on a free transfer. Before their eleventh league round, Monaco sit second with 20 points, one behind PSG, with six wins, two draws, and two losses; they have scored 23 and conceded 16. PSG occupies the top spot with 11 points from three wins, two draws, and five losses, scoring 17 and conceding 20.

Four days later, Monaco will host Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League group stage, as they seek to advance in European competition.

Two punchlines to wrap this up: If patience were a sport, Pogba would win the league every season. And Monaco’s medical staff are so meticulous that even a warm-up jog requires a memo, an approval, and probably a small press conference.