Paul Pogba has revisited one of the most pivotal decisions of his career, admitting he seriously considered a move to Real Madrid before ultimately following his heart back to Manchester United.
Speaking candidly about the choice, the AS Monaco midfielder of Guinean descent insisted he holds no regrets over rejecting the Spanish giants, despite the alternative path his career might have taken.
“Real Madrid came to me,” Pogba revealed, reflecting on the summer of 2016. “I was thinking about going there, but at the same time I was also thinking about Manchester United. My heart told me to go back to United, I don’t know why.”
The Frenchman, now 32, stressed that the decision was deeply personal and one he remains at peace with. “I don’t know what would have changed if I had chosen Real Madrid, but I made that choice and I don’t regret it. I never regret a decision I make,” he said, underlining a mindset that has shaped his career across some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
While those reflections dominate the headlines, Pogba will be a spectator on Champions League night as Monaco host Real Madrid, the very club he once weighed up joining.
A calf injury sustained in early December has stalled his return to action, forcing him to watch from the stands as his current side take on the reigning European heavyweights.
Monaco had hoped Pogba’s experience could bolster their midfield on such a grand occasion, but the club’s medical staff have opted against taking risks with his recovery. The focus remains on ensuring the former World Cup winner is fully fit for the decisive stretch of the season.
