Paul Pogba’s bid to revive his career has encountered fresh turbulence, with his brother Mathias Pogba admitting that mounting setbacks have left the entire family disheartened as the former Manchester United midfielder struggles to regain full fitness at AS Monaco.
The 2018 World Cup winner has endured a difficult spell since returning to competitive football in November, marking his first appearance in over two years.
Expectations were high that the Frenchman’s comeback would signal a turning point following his lengthy absence from the game, but recurring physical issues have instead slowed his progress.
Pogba has not featured for Monaco since early December due to a calf injury and was subsequently omitted from the club’s Champions League squad as medical staff continue working behind the scenes to manage his condition.
Speaking to RMC Sport, Mathias Pogba acknowledged the emotional toll the situation has had on the family while stressing their unwavering support for the midfielder.
“It’s frustrating, not just for him, but for everyone in the family. I told him that he couldn’t be back at 100 per cent straight away,” Mathias said.
He also conceded that the family had hoped Pogba’s return would immediately restore him to his previous heights but recognised the physical demands involved in rebuilding match fitness.
“We expected better from his return. But this is the reality. The body is not used to this sort of rhythm at high intensity,” he added.
Monaco’s director Thiago Scuro confirmed that the club’s medical team remains fully committed to Pogba’s recovery, though he admitted there is no definite timeline for the midfielder’s return to training.
Despite the uncertainty, Mathias believes mental strength will play a decisive role in determining whether his brother can rediscover his best form as he approaches the latter stages of his career.
“We are patient and resilient. He will have that patience to get back to his best level. He is working. It’s more mentally that it becomes difficult. You have high expectations.”
