French-Guinean midfielder Paul Pogba nearing Monaco debut after fitness update

French midfielder Paul Pogba is closing in on his first appearance for AS Monaco, with head coach Adi Hütter revealing that the World Cup winner is making steady progress in his recovery.

The 32-year-old joined the Ligue 1 side over the summer after leaving Juventus, his first club move since serving a doping suspension.

Born in France to Guinean parents, Pogba has been sidelined from competitive football since September 2023 and has been working to regain full match fitness.

His anticipated debut for Monaco has generated intense interest, given his pedigree at both club and international level and his long absence from the game.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Hütter offered a positive update on the midfielder’s condition.

“We can’t compare Paul Pogba’s situation (with Ansu Fati’s). Fati is much younger than Paul. Ansu has been training for a long time. Today, Paul is being used more and more,” the coach said.

He further explained the club’s approach to Pogba’s reintegration: “We’re in our process. We’ve given ourselves three months. He’s getting closer to the group. He’s physically and mentally well.”

Despite the encouraging signs, Hütter cautioned that Pogba will not be rushed back into action. “It’s a consideration. With the injured, we have a look at that, but it makes no sense to bring someone in just to say we have someone,” he stated.

Monaco’s supporters are eager to see Pogba back on the pitch, with his experience and creativity expected to strengthen the team’s midfield.