Monaco are planning to delay Paul Pogba's debut until October as the ex-Manchester United star continues to work on his fitness. The 32-year-old, who signed with the Ligue 1 side on a free transfer earlier this summer, has not featured in a professional match since September 2023.
Monaco have handed Pogba a two-year dealFrench midfielder is not being rushed into actionClub have chalked out a three-month rehab planFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! š¢š±WHAT HAPPENED?
After his doping suspension officially ended in March, Pogba attracted attention from several clubs across the globe, but Monacoās project stood out as a serious and strategic opportunity for the World Cup winner. Since then, the ex-Juventus midfielder has been undergoing a carefully structured fitness programme and has shown promising signs of progress during Monacoās pre-season camp in England.
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Yet, Monaco do not want to fast-track Pogbaās return. Their midfield options are among the strongest in Ligue 1, arguably only second to Paris Saint-Germain, which gives them the luxury to ease the Frenchman back into action at the right pace.
WHAT MONACO CEO SAID
Pogba had expressed hopes of facing Le Havre, the club where he began his youth career, in Monacoās opening Ligue 1 match for the 2025-26 season.Ā However, those ambitions have been dashed as the club emphasises the need to prioritise long-term fitness over short-term emotional narratives.
Monaco chief executive, Thiago Scuro, shared an update with the : "I can guarantee he won't be on the pitch against Le Havre. We are here to be realistic. We expect a three-month process." That projection places Pogbaās potential debut for Monaco in early October, aligning with the clubās cautious yet optimistic timeline for bringing him up to full speed.
DID YOU KNOW?
Pogba has reportedly already made an impression on his new team-mates. Known for his charisma and confidence, he has seamlessly connected with both senior figures and younger prospects in the squad. Monaco's staff and players have observed how the France international has naturally assumed a mentoring role, especially helpful as the club looks to blend youthful exuberance with experienced heads for a balanced team dynamic.
