Paul Pogba’s professional future was hanging in the balance. When the original four-year ban handed down in early 2024 was reduced to 18 months on appeal later that year, questions shifted?
would return to where he would return.
That question was finally answered in June 2025, when Pogba signed a two-year contract with AS Monaco. It marked not just a return to football, but a symbolic restart in a quiet coastal village—La Turbie—far removed from the chaos that had defined recent years of his life.
A Surprising Destination, A Strategic Move
Pogba hadn’t played since September 2023, and many assumed he might take his talents to a less competitive league, with rumored interest from clubs in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Japan. French sides, including Marseille, were also linked. But concerns over his fitness clouded serious bids.
Marseille sporting director Mehdi Benatia openly admitted that while the club considered signing him, it wasn’t the right fit at the time:
"When you're building balance in a squad, it's hard to justify adding a player who isn't yet match-ready."
AS Monaco, however, saw a different picture—one of opportunity. Pogba was a free agent after his contract with Juventus ended, and despite the cost of his wages, Monaco considered him a worthwhile investment during a financially delicate period for Ligue 1 clubs.
As CEO Thiago Scuro put it, “Even free agents come with costs—but Pogba represented a rare blend of pedigree, availability, and influence.”
A Shift in Monaco’s Recruitment Philosophy
Monaco has been known for grooming young talent, with academy graduates like Maghnes Akliouche and Eliesse Ben Seghir breaking through recently. Their transfer activity echoed that youth-first vision, with rising stars like George Ilenikhena and Lamine Camara joining the club before turning 21.
But by early 2025, there was a growing realization that youth alone wasn’t enough.
"We were building a promising future, but maybe we were becoming too young," Scuro admitted. "We needed experience to anchor it."
After an unsuccessful pursuit of England midfielder Jordan Henderson in January, and a short-term stint with Moatasem Al-Musrati, Monaco changed gears. Pogba visited the club’s facilities in May, held talks with manager Adi Hütter and president Dmitry Rybolovlev, and the decision followed soon after. Veteran defender Eric Dier also joined from Bayern Munich, further strengthening the experienced core.
Pogba’s Early Impact: Off the Pitch First
Though not yet match-fit, Pogba is already making his presence felt. During Monaco’s pre-season training in England, he bonded with both senior players and the club’s younger prospects, taking on a mentorship role with natural ease.
Scuro emphasized that the club won’t be rushing him back.
"There’s no urgency. We expect a gradual return, possibly by October. He won’t be facing Le Havre on opening day."
The approach is careful and calculated. Pogba is seen not as the savior of the midfield—already one of the league’s best—but as a high-upside addition who can elevate the squad’s mentality and confidence.
The Business of Pogba
From a commercial standpoint, Pogba’s return is already a triumph. His jersey quickly became the top seller at Monaco, with more than half of all recent shirt sales carrying his name. His arrival sparked over
400 million impressions across social media platforms, bringing renewed global attention to both the player and Ligue 1.
League president Vincent Labrune praised the move:
“It’s a win for everyone. His reputation and charisma bring a spotlight to our league.”
Managers across France, including Rennes’ Habib Beye and Brest’s Eric Roy, have applauded Monaco’s bold step.
The Weight of the Past
Still, Pogba’s return comes with baggage—both physical and emotional. Injuries had plagued him well before his suspension. Off the pitch, personal turmoil added to the strain. In 2022, he was the victim of an attempted extortion involving his brother, Mathias, who was later convicted. The case exposed a dark chapter in Pogba’s life, including disturbing allegations that he sought help from a witch doctor—rumors he was forced to clarify.
Looking back, Pogba believes those events took a toll on his performance.
“Everything is connected,” he said tearfully during his Monaco presentation. “Signing here is more than a football decision—it’s about finding peace.”
What Comes Next?