‘Difficult but highly motivated’ – French-Guinean midfielder Pogba earns praise from Monaco coach Hütter

AS Monaco manager Adi Hütter has provided a positive assessment of Paul Pogba’s progress in pre-season, describing the midfielder as “extremely motivated” despite the challenges of his long absence from competitive football.

Hütter admitted the French international has endured a tough road back but praised his determination to make a strong comeback.

Pogba, who is of Guinean heritage, joined Monaco this summer after serving a two-year suspension for a doping violation that kept him sidelined during his final years at Juventus.

The former Manchester United star has been working to rebuild his fitness and form ahead of the new Ligue 1 campaign.

Speaking to Cronache di Spogliatoio, Hütter said Pogba’s drive has been evident from their earliest conversations.

“We all know how difficult Pogba’s situation has been: two years without playing, you can imagine how hard that was. Paul is really eager to return and is extremely motivated — he has big personal goals.

“He wants to return to the national team, but one of his biggest motivations is to show his children that he’s an extraordinary player,” Hütter explained.

The Monaco boss revealed that Pogba has integrated well into the squad and earned the admiration of his teammates.

“He’s received a warm welcome here. From our first call, I could sense his desire to join us — and that’s exactly what we look for in players: the will to bounce back and the determination to succeed. We have to be cautious, but he’s on the right path,” Hütter added.

Pogba’s return to top-level football will be closely watched, with the 32-year-old targeting not only domestic success with Monaco but also a place in Didier Deschamps’ France squad.