World Cup-winning midfielder Paul Pogba has officially joined AS Monaco on a two-year contract, marking a significant return to football following a turbulent period marred by a doping suspension. The Ligue 1 club announced the free transfer on Saturday, June 28, 2025, heralding a new beginning for the 32-year-old French international.
Pogba's career was brought to an abrupt halt in September 2023 after he tested positive for a banned substance while at Juventus. The initial four-year ban was subsequently reduced to 18 months following a successful appeal, paving the way for his return to the pitch. His contract with the Italian giants was terminated in November 2024.
The move to Monaco signals a fresh start for Pogba in his native France, a league he has not played in at the senior level. After a challenging second stint at Juventus and a mixed period at Manchester United, the former world's most expensive player will be eager to recapture the form that saw him become one of the most sought-after midfielders in the world.
In a statement, AS Monaco expressed their delight in welcoming a player of Pogba's caliber, highlighting his vast experience and winning mentality as key assets to the team. The midfielder, a pivotal member of France's 2018 World Cup-winning squad, is expected to bring leadership and creativity to the Monaco midfield as they prepare for the upcoming season, which includes a campaign in the UEFA Champions League.
While questions remain about his match fitness and ability to return to his peak performance levels after a prolonged absence, the move has generated considerable excitement. Football analysts and fans alike will be closely watching to see if this new chapter in the French Riviera can reignite the career of one of football's most enigmatic talents, with a potential return to the French national team for the 2026 World Cup a tantalizing prospect.
