Paul Pogba is poised to make his long-awaited return to professional football after a tumultuous period marked by a doping ban. The former Juventus midfielder is set to play for AS Monaco in a match against Rennes, marking his first competitive game since September 2023.
Pogba’s Doping Ban Journey
- Initial Ban: Pogba faced a four-year ban after testing positive for the banned substance DHEA.
- Reduced Sentence: His punishment was later reduced to 18 months on appeal, allowing his return to the pitch in March 2025.
- Final Confirmation: Pogba’s positive test occurred following a match against Udinese on August 20, 2023.
Career Highlights
Pogba has had a storied career. He initially gained fame at Manchester United, where he returned in 2016 for a record fee of £89.3 million. During his time at United, he won several titles, including the Europa League and Carabao Cup.
His second stint at Juventus began in July 2022 but was marred by injuries, impacting his performance and relationship with the coaching staff. He ultimately faced additional challenges, including a familial extortion case involving his brother, Mathias Pogba.
Significant Dates in Pogba’s Career
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2022 | Pogba leaves Manchester United on a free transfer. |
| July 11, 2022 | Rejoins Juventus. |
| Sept. 11, 2023 | Tests positive for banned substance. |
| Oct. 4, 2024 | Doping ban reduced to 18 months. |
| June 28, 2025 | Signs with AS Monaco on a two-year contract. |
| Nov. 11, 2025 | Included in Monaco squad for first match. |
Looking Ahead
As Pogba prepares to make his AS Monaco debut, hopes are high for his return. His recent rehabilitation program focused on getting him match-ready after a lengthy absence. With a commitment to regain his best form, Pogba aims to contribute significantly to his new team.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how Pogba, a 2018 World Cup champion, will perform in Ligue 1 and whether he can regain his status as one of football’s elite players.
