Paul Pogba needs more time to gain regular starting role – Monaco coach Sébastien Pocognoli

Head coach of AS Monaco, Sébastien Pocognoli, insists Franco-Guinean star Paul Pogba needs more time to gain regular playing time at the club.

Pogba has made two appearances for the French outfit since securing a move to the club in the summer window after suspension.

The former Manchester United star made substitute appearance when Monaco narrowly triumphed over Paris Saint Germain last weekend.

As the Principality club gears up for the Brest showdown, Sébastien Pocognoli has stressed Pogba will need time to command a starting role.

“He’s been training non-stop. He’s giving 100%, without holding back. There’s still some work to do on his base fitness, but that’s normal because it depends on playing matches. Everything is going well; his performance against PSG was in line with what we’d planned”

“We’ll need to start gradually increasing his playing time. But it’s the same for every player; we have to think about the team first to see what he can contribute on the pitch”

“Against Paris, when he came on, we were leading 1-0 with 10 men against 11. It wasn’t easy, but it was the best solution given his qualities, his experience, and what he’s been working on in training”

“So it was a logical choice. He still needs a little more time before he’s a regular starter, but when we feel he’s ready, we can step things up a notch. In any case, he’s very clear-headed, objective, and positive about the process. That’s important, and that’s why he was able to play, because it shows great character. He listens to his body and everything we’re putting in place; there’s nothing but positives”

Pogba was a member of the France squad that secured the 2018 World Cup tournament in Russia. Having returned to action, the midfielder will be hoping for a swift return to the the France national team ahead of the 2026 mundial.