Having not played an official match since 2023 due to a doping suspension, the 32-year-old could see his Monaco debut this month in serious doubt, adding to the frustration of his return as he targets a return to the national team before the World Cup.
Pogba's highly anticipated Monaco debut could be put on hold after another injury picked up in training, according to Nice-Matin. The French international was due to return to the competition against Angers on October 18, but a slight muscle strain in his right thigh compromised his participation. The club confirmed this setback, specifying however that the problem is not linked to the knee problems he suffered in the past.
Frustration grows after two years of absence
This latest blow is another frustrating chapter in Pogba's long road back to professional football. The World Cup winner has not played an official match since September 2023, having served an 18-month suspension for doping before signing with the Ligue 1 club at the end of June 2025. His return was initially planned for last week's derby against Nice, before being pushed back to Angers to allow better recovery, a precaution justified by this new muscular problem.
Beginnings under new management
To further complicate his return, Pogba will not play under the coach who recruited him. Adi Hutter, who recruited the Frenchman, was sacked by Monaco earlier this week. This means that when Pogba is finally fit to make his debut, it will be under a new coach, whose appointment is yet to be confirmed.
What next for Pogba and Monaco? With the planned return against Angers now in serious question, no new timetable has been set for Pogba's debut. The club's medical staff are closely monitoring his thigh injury and a decision regarding his availability will be made in due course. For now, the former Manchester United star is still awaiting his return to the field, with both player and club hoping it is just a slight delay on the road to redemption.
