French-Guinean midfielder Paul Pogba could make Monaco debut after two-year absence

Paul Pogba could return to competitive football this weekend, with AS Monaco coach Sebastien Pocognoli hinting that the midfielder may feature against Paris FC.

The French-Guinean star has not played for over two years due to a combination of injuries and a doping ban.

Pogba joined Monaco as a free agent in the summer and has spent recent months working to regain full fitness.

His recovery suffered a brief setback earlier this month, but the 32-year-old returned to full training this week, boosting hopes of a long-awaited comeback.

Pogba’s potential inclusion would mark his first competitive appearance since September 2023, when he last featured for Juventus.

Pocognoli suggested that the World Cup winner could be named in Monaco’s matchday squad for Saturday’s Ligue 1 fixture.

“It’s possible he’ll be reinstated in the group,” the coach told reporters.

“There’s still one training session with a certain amount of work, but if he feels well, we’d be perfectly on track. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to see him on the squad list.”

Pogba’s return would represent a major milestone in his bid to revive a career once defined by brilliance at Manchester United and success with the French national team.

During his prime, Pogba was regarded as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders, combining strength, flair, and creativity.

His time at Juventus ended amid controversy following a doping suspension that sidelined him for much of the past two seasons.

Since then, he has undergone extensive rehabilitation to rebuild fitness and confidence.

Monaco see Pogba’s experience as vital to their push for European qualification, and his return could offer both technical quality and leadership in midfield.